Best Grants for Seniors in Massachusetts

The BETA: Roadmaps initiative by MassCEC aims to accelerate building electrification and decarbonization for non-profit and public entities in Massachusetts. This program provides actionable roadmaps to achieve zero-emissions building portfolios by 2050, supporting the state’s climate goals. Participants receive tailored decarbonization strategies, addressing their unique needs while fostering sustainable practices across diverse building types. With a focus on efficient procurement and implementation, the initiative aligns with the Commonwealth's broader clean energy objectives.

The Creag Foundation, established in 2009 in Woodinville, Washington, provides funding to innovative 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations addressing social issues. Focused on smaller organizations, the foundation seeks to support those with unique approaches to improve the human condition. Eligible applicants must have held 501(c)(3) status for at least one year and present a new or previously unaddressed solution to societal challenges. Applications are by invitation only, encouraging creativity and passion in charitable work.

The DanPaul Foundation aims to enhance early childhood development by training teachers and parents, protecting children from abuse, and promoting social responsibility. They provide grants to non-profits for programs that focus on education, health, and welfare of youth. Key initiatives include scholarships, environmental education, and support for underprivileged children. Grant amounts range from a few hundred dollars to $15,000 annually, with a focus on impactful, community-driven projects.

The Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation provides grants to early-stage social entrepreneurs working on scalable solutions to pressing social and environmental issues. By supporting organizations with innovative approaches and proven impact, they aim to uplift underserved communities globally. The foundation offers operational support, funding of up to $300,000 over three years, and fosters a collaborative community among its portfolio organizations. They focus on candidates demonstrating measurable impact and sustainable growth potential.

State Farm's Good Neighbor Citizenship Company Grants aim to enhance community safety, development, and education. Focused on long-term impact, they support initiatives in auto and home safety, disaster preparedness, affordable housing, and educational programs. Eligible recipients include nonprofits, educational institutions, and government entities. However, funding is not available for individuals, religious programs, or organizations outside the U.S. By addressing critical community needs, these grants foster safer and more resilient neighborhoods.

The Labcorp Charitable Foundation, a private 501(c)(3) entity, aims to enhance healthcare access and education for all. With grant opportunities focusing on food programs, healthcare services for underserved populations, and STEM initiatives, it seeks to support community health and well-being. Organizations eligible for funding must be U.S.-based and hold tax-exempt status. Requests are reviewed biannually, in March and September, to foster impactful community projects.

The McKeen Fund Grant is dedicated to enhancing the lives of vulnerable populations, including seniors and disadvantaged children and families. This private fund supports medical, educational, and social service programs, prioritizing initiatives that cannot secure outside funding. The Fund emphasizes grants for capital projects and specific programs aligned with its mission, while also engaging in direct charitable activities. Organizations eligible must be 501(c)(3) public charities, primarily in Florida, Massachusetts, and New York.

The PNC Foundation aims to enhance the lives of individuals in local communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. Their focus includes promoting educational opportunities, particularly for early childhood education, and supporting economic development initiatives. Grants are available for organizations that benefit low- to moderate-income families and enhance community growth. The foundation prioritizes programs that foster sustainability and diversity, ensuring a lasting impact on the communities they serve.

The Semnani Family Foundation, established in 1993, is dedicated to supporting marginalized communities worldwide through health, education, and disaster relief initiatives. Founded by Khosrow and Ghazaleh Semnani, it began by funding an orphanage in Romania. The foundation also operates locally, providing free healthcare through the Maliheh Free Clinic in Utah. Its commitment to human welfare drives impactful partnerships in countries such as Afghanistan, India, and South Africa, focusing on the most vulnerable populations.

The Sidney Stern Memorial Trust Grant supports charitable, scientific, medical, and educational organizations that are 501(c)(3) certified. This private funder emphasizes impactful service to diverse populations without discrimination. Grants must be utilized within the United States and cannot be awarded to individuals, political candidates, or lobbying efforts. The Trust is dedicated to enhancing the general welfare through soundly-managed initiatives that contribute significantly to community needs.

The Bank of America Foundation Sponsorship Program aims to enhance economic mobility and social progress in low- and moderate-income communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. This initiative focuses on critical areas such as workforce education, basic needs like food and housing, and community development. The Foundation invested $350 million last year and encourages employee volunteerism and giving, supporting nonprofits in various sectors, including arts, culture, and diversity initiatives.

The Robinson Foundation Grant, established in 2016, aims to alleviate hardships faced by individuals and communities, demonstrating God's love through charitable contributions. As a family-operated foundation, it focuses on creating meaningful, long-term impacts in various areas including animal welfare, education, and disaster relief. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501(c)(3) public charities. The foundation prioritizes fiscally responsible projects with the potential for tangible results, while not supporting capital projects.

The TJX Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations located within 15 miles of a TJX store that align with their community mission. Eligible areas include basic needs, education for at-risk youth, workforce training, and safety from domestic violence. Organizations must be a registered 501(c)(3) for at least 12 months and have a nondiscrimination policy. Applications are invited through a Letter of Inquiry, with funding decisions based on community impact.

The Age Strong Rolling Grant Program, managed by the City of Boston’s Age Strong Commission, offers financial support for small-scale programs benefiting the 55+ population. With grants up to $2,500, this initiative aims to enhance social engagement and community resources. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until May 7, 2026, prioritizing organizations not currently funded by related programs. The program fosters community strength by addressing the unique needs of older adults in Boston.

The Robinson-Broadhurst Foundation, established in 1984, is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for residents in Stamford and Worcester, New York, and Winchendon, Massachusetts. By funding charitable 501(c)(3) organizations, the foundation supports various initiatives, including community health services, historical preservation, education, and public safety. Organizations aligned with these goals are encouraged to apply for grants to foster community spirit and cooperation.

The Penn National Gaming Foundation Grants support various community initiatives across North America, emphasizing education, health services, and cultural affairs. Launched post-Hurricane Katrina, the foundation aids local nonprofits, enhancing community development, public safety, and veteran support. The grants cater to organizations that address the needs of children, senior citizens, and disadvantaged populations, ensuring a broad impact in areas where Penn National Gaming operates. This commitment reflects the foundation's dedication to uplifting communities and fostering resilience.

The Cummings $30 Million Grant Program will allocate $30 million to 150 local nonprofits in the Greater Boston area in 2026. This program primarily supports organizations focused on human services, social justice, education, healthcare, and environmental initiatives. Eligible applicants must be based in specific Massachusetts counties and provide services within those areas. The program does not fund requests related to the arts, culture, or animal welfare, ensuring resources are directed to pressing community needs.

Ameriprise Community Grants focus on supporting nonprofits that enhance community vitality and meet basic needs. With over 120 years of commitment to philanthropy, Ameriprise Financial engages employees in volunteerism and grantmaking. Key giving areas include hunger relief, housing stability, and community development. Priority is given to organizations with active volunteer engagement from Ameriprise advisors and employees, creating a meaningful impact on financial independence and community resilience.

The Nordstrom Community Grant focuses on supporting youth and families by providing over $1 million in grants annually. It aims to assist grassroots organizations that address essential community needs such as food, shelter, and clothing, as well as creating opportunities for economic mobility through mentorship and workforce development. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits located in areas where Nordstrom operates. Applications are encouraged for those meeting these criteria.

The Dr. Scholl Foundation offers grants annually to IRS 501(c)(3) organizations, primarily focusing on U.S. applicants. The foundation supports projects in education, social services, healthcare, civic and cultural initiatives, and environmental efforts. While the grant cycle runs from October 1 to March 1, it encourages innovative solutions to global challenges. Only one application per organization is accepted each year, and funding is limited to one year. Unqualified organizations, including political entities, are ineligible.

The MGM Resorts Foundation Community Grant Fund supports nonprofit agencies providing essential services in areas such as affordable housing, education, and health. Grants are awarded for a one-year period and focus on regions where MGM Resorts employees live and work. Eligible applicants must comply with diversity policies and serve individuals or families. The foundation does not fund governmental agencies or projects exclusively for medical research. This initiative aims to enhance community well-being through targeted support.

The Hansen Family Foundation Grant seeks to empower organizations that uphold the American values of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Focused on diverse causes like children, education, animals, environmental conservation, humanitarian efforts, and arts, the foundation is committed to supporting initiatives that create positive change. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits, while political campaigns and organizations with high budgets or overheads are ineligible. This grant fosters impactful contributions to society.

The Harold Brooks Foundation, established in 1984, supports nonprofit organizations that enhance the lives of South Shore residents in Massachusetts. Focused on five key areas—education, food and nutrition, health, housing, and mental health—the Foundation aims to address the basic human needs of the community. By funding impactful programs, it seeks to assist the underserved and improve the overall well-being of the region's residents.

The True Inspiration Awards, established by Chick-fil-A in 2015, recognizes nonprofit organizations that significantly impact their communities. In 2025, the program will distribute $6 million in grants, ranging from $30,000 to $350,000, to sixteen selected organizations. Categories include Caring for People, Caring through Food, Community, and Caring for our Planet, with a focus on educational initiatives, food security, housing services, and environmental stewardship, honoring the legacy of founder S. Truett Cathy.

The Gupta Family Foundation Grant aims to empower disadvantaged individuals by providing financial support to organizations that foster self-reliance. Headquartered in Herndon, Virginia, the foundation offers grants ranging from $5,000 to over $250,000, prioritizing smaller organizations with a strong commitment to their missions. Eligibility typically includes US-based IRS 501(c)(3) entities, with operations extending to countries like India and Kenya. The foundation emphasizes mission alignment and effective resource allocation to ensure maximum impact.

Greater Worcester Community Foundation

Run by the people, for the people, the Foundation is unique as a citizen-run model of philanthropy dedicated to enhancing the community as a whole, now and in the future, rather than just one sector or cause. The Foundation is unique in its capacity to unite people from diverse sectors in influencing and effecting positive change throughout Worcester County.

Greater Worcester Community Foundation is central Massachusetts’ leading community foundation, employing its expertise and resources to address the region’s most urgent needs. Mission: To enhance our community, now and in the future, through philanthropic leadership. Vision: The communities of greater Worcester are valued and attractive because of the well-being of our citizens.

Worcester County Weatherization Assistance Grant Program

National Grid has partnered with Greater Worcester Community Foundation – through our Worcester County Green Fund – to support nonprofit organizations that help households reduce their winter and year-round energy costs. As a Sponsor of the Mass Save Programs, National Grid offers qualifying income-eligible households a variety of no-cost upgrades, including comprehensive home energy assessments, insulation and air-sealing upgrades. For residents living in single family (1-4 unit) homes:

• Low-income customers are defined as those earning up to 60% of state median income (“SMI”)
• Moderate-income customers are defined as those earning 61% SMI up to either 80% area median income (“AMI”) or 80% SMI (whichever is greater)

This funding is available to Worcester County nonprofit organizations that already do this type of home energy improvement work themselves, or sub-contract vendors to do this type of work as part of their existing service mix. The goal of this funding is to supplement existing National Grid programs and enable weatherization assistance.

The East Boston Foundation

The foundation was formed in 1998 to administer a generous $9.6 million commitment from the Massachusetts Port Authority as part of community mitigation and to offset the impacts associated with Massport's $4.4 Billion Logan Airport Modernization Program.

Categories of Grants

The Board of Trustees of the East Boston Foundation has identified the following categories of grants, which in the discretion of the Board may be amended from time to time. Grant requests and applications shall be grouped into various categories and identified as follows:

Youth/Senior Recreation Support Grants (YSRS)

The Foundation recognizes the need to further promote, encourage and support youth and senior recreation programs in the community.

Participation in such programs should be encouraged for the community’s youth and seniors and the costs of participation should be minimal so as to not be cost prohibitive.

The Foundation will consider applications for youth recreation programs, which meet the following minimum criteria:

• The proponent have at least two (2) years of demonstrated experience in the successful coordination of such events or can demonstrate to the satisfaction of the Board its ability to carry out such objectives;
• The program is open to and is capable of providing a substantial benefit on the residents of the East Boston community regardless of gender, race, religion, ethnicity, national origin or handicap and seeks to encourage participation through outreach and/or registration drives as well as needs assessments;
• The Grant sought from the Foundation shall not exceed 50% of the applicant’s average total cash revenue (excluding in kind support) for the two (2) years preceding the application as demonstrated by the Applicant’s 990/990EZ filing or Form PC filed with the Massachusetts Attorney General;
• The allocation of the Foundation’s grant money may be used for expenses related to salaries and or wage benefits, however the amount allocated from the grant may not exceed 50% of the grant awarded.
• In certain circumstances, the proponent provides reasonable assistance to disadvantaged individuals who experience financial hardship and who would otherwise be prohibited from participation.
• A grant to the organization shall not result in the creation of a general
• unrestricted surplus for the program’s operating budget.
• The applicant adequately demonstrates an ability to generate the remaining revenue as contemplated under its proposed budget