Best Homelessness Grants in California

The Domanica Foundation Grant provides funding to IRS-qualified charitable 501(c)(3) organizations in San Diego and Denver. Established in 1994, the foundation focuses on social services addressing hunger, homelessness, healthcare for the uninsured, and scholarships for non-traditional students. While first-time recipients typically receive between $1,000 and $5,000, there is no set application schedule. Proposal summaries can be submitted at any time for consideration by the board.

The Ahmanson Foundation Grant supports cultural projects in Los Angeles County, focusing on arts, education, healthcare, and human services. It emphasizes funding for established 501(c)(3) organizations that demonstrate sound management and impactful programs. The Foundation prioritizes one-time or short-term requests, particularly from organizations with a history of effective leadership. While supporting innovative initiatives, it typically excludes funding for operational support, individual scholarships, and political activities, aiming to enhance the community's cultural legacy.

The Weyerhaeuser Giving Fund provides grants to support communities in the U.S. and Canada where the company operates. Focused on affordable housing, education, environmental stewardship, and more, the fund emphasizes projects that meet local needs and demonstrate community support. Eligible organizations include nonprofits and educational institutions. Applications are accepted year-round with a deadline for 2025 on September 30. National initiatives related to working forests are funded by invitation only.

The Marisla Foundation, established in 1986, offers a Human Services Grant aimed at supporting women in crisis in Orange County and Los Angeles, California. This grant focuses on enhancing physical, emotional, and financial wellbeing through stable housing, addiction treatment, and vocational training. Eligible organizations must possess 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status. The foundation does not support individual applications or multiple submissions from the same organization within a year, ensuring a fair and equitable distribution of resources.

The Imagine Learning Foundation's Signature Grant Program aims to enhance the well-being of learners by supporting social and emotional learning (SEL) initiatives. By bridging classroom and community efforts, it fosters healthier environments for youth, families, and educators. The program prioritizes funding for organizations addressing critical issues like chronic absenteeism and housing insecurity. In 2024, the foundation will allocate over $400,000 to impactful projects, furthering its mission to cultivate supportive learning experiences both in and out of the classroom.

The NFL Grants program, in partnership with the Bob Woodruff Foundation, is dedicated to supporting veterans, service members, and their families. This initiative funds programs aimed at improving health and well-being, enhancing opportunities, and reducing barriers to care. Organizations providing direct services to the military community can apply for funding, ensuring financial responsibility and sustainability. Grants are awarded twice a year, with applications reviewed year-round.

The San Diego County Employees Charitable Organization (CECO) offers grants to local non-profit organizations, supporting community initiatives since 1956. With over $7 million distributed, CECO primarily funds tangible goods to enhance services and programs that benefit diverse communities. Eligible organizations must be registered non-profits or educational institutions in good standing, and grants are capped at $10,000 per application, with limits on the number of applications per organization. Applications for 2024 open from October 2 to November 3.

The Sandia Corporate Contributions Program, managed by Sandia National Laboratories, has a long-standing commitment to community support, contributing over $1 million annually to non-profits. This initiative focuses on enhancing Educational Success and Family Stability in local communities, reflecting Sandia's dedication to inspiring future generations. With a proud history of service, the program aims to empower organizations that make a tangible difference in people's lives.

The Father's Table Foundation Grant aims to glorify God by addressing the immediate and future needs of women and children globally. This selective grant process emphasizes building self-sufficiency and resilience among beneficiaries, focusing on proven partners capable of expanding their impact. The foundation supports a diverse range of projects, including employment assistance, education, humanitarian aid, and health care, ensuring that aid not only meets urgent needs but also fosters long-term sustainability.

The Laird Norton Family Foundation, based in Seattle, prioritizes grants that reflect family values in arts education, climate change, human services, and watershed stewardship. Their approach emphasizes equitable educational opportunities, carbon sequestration, support for youth at risk of homelessness, and long-term ecological health. They focus on organizations that address social justice and community needs, particularly in King County, WA, and the West Coast. Note: No unsolicited applications are accepted.

The Bridge Association of REALTORS Community Foundation Grants aims to financially support vital community programs that promote housing, youth opportunities, and diversity. The foundation focuses on Youth Arts and Education, Senior Services, and Workforce Housing, providing grants to non-profits in Albany, Berkeley, Emeryville, Kensington, Oakland, and Piedmont. With an emphasis on specific projects, eligible organizations must have tax-exempt status and demonstrate a commitment to addressing pressing community needs.

The Venable Foundation, a corporate funder, provides grants averaging $10,000 to nonprofits focused on human services, legal support, education, workforce development, youth impact, health, environment, and arts. Funding is targeted at organizations in specific regions, including Washington, DC, Baltimore, New York City, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, Miami, and Denver, reinforcing equitable opportunities for economically disadvantaged individuals.

Catholic Extension's Enhancing Pastoral and Social Ministry Grants aim to empower the church to broaden its outreach and foster societal transformation through targeted pastoral and social initiatives. This program supports specific elements of the church's ministerial efforts, including funding for catechetical resources, marriage and family ministries, and social outreach for vulnerable populations. By investing in these areas, Catholic Extension seeks to enhance the church's role in communities, especially following disasters.

The Crail-Johnson Foundation primarily supports nonprofit organizations that benefit children, youth, and families in the greater Los Angeles area. Grants focus on human services, education, and health, with priority given to communities in specific Los Angeles County Service Planning Areas. The Foundation does not fund religious activities, university education, or individual requests, and typically limits grants to one year, with no more than three consecutive years of support.

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 In-N-Out Burger Foundation supports organizations that aid children and youth affected by abuse and neglect, offering grants ranging from $5,000 to $50,000. Eligible nonprofits must be 501(c)(3) registered, operational for at least two years, and demonstrate a commitment to the foundation's mission. Applications are considered for traditional, capital, and program support, focusing on sustainable solutions and clear objectives. Organizations must operate in areas with In-N-Out Burger locations to qualify.

The Day-End Dough-Nation® Program by Panera Bread exemplifies community generosity through the donation of unsold bakery products to local charities. This impactful initiative supports various organizations that distribute food to those in need, including shelters, health centers, and youth programs. By partnering with thousands of non-profits nationwide, Panera Bread not only reduces food waste but also plays a crucial role in addressing hunger and promoting equality within communities.

The Journey For Good Grant aims to combat poverty by supporting charitable organizations in North America focused on food security, housing, education, and workforce development. The grant prioritizes initiatives that provide nutritional wellness, combat homelessness, and support veterans and their families. By fostering partnerships among nonprofits, government, and business, the foundation addresses the interconnected challenges faced by economically vulnerable individuals, creating sustainable solutions for community empowerment.

The Impact Fund provides recoverable grants to legal services nonprofits and small law firms working on social, environmental, and economic justice issues. With over $10 million awarded since 1992, the fund supports impactful litigation addressing systemic injustices. Grants range from $10,000 to $50,000 and prioritize cases directly involving affected communities. Recipients must repay the grant amount with interest if they recover fees or costs, ensuring sustainability for future funding.

BISSELL Pet Foundation's Partners for Pets program supports over 6,025 animal welfare organizations across the U.S. by providing resources aimed at reducing homeless animals through adoption, spay/neuter initiatives, and emergency support. Eligible organizations must be 501(C)(3) nonprofits or local government entities engaged in animal welfare, fostering community connections and financial assistance during crises. This initiative not only benefits shelters but also enhances partnerships among various animal welfare groups, promoting a united effort to improve animal lives.

The PEDIGREE Foundation offers Program Development Grants aimed at enhancing dog adoption rates by supporting shelters and rescues across the U.S. Established in 2008, the foundation prioritizes initiatives such as transport, matching, and foster programs. Funding is available to 501(c)(3) designated organizations committed to improving the quality of care for dogs and ultimately increasing their chances of adoption, ensuring that every dog finds a loving home.

The James B and Lois R Archer Charitable Foundation offers Smaller Grants of $10,000 or less to support initiatives in Arts and Culture, Civic Engagement, Education, Health, and Human Services. Organizations must have 501(c)(3) status and comply with eligibility criteria, including a one-year waiting period for reapplications. The foundation aims to have a significant impact on communities, especially in West Texas, while avoiding funding for specific exclusions such as endowments and fundraising events.

The James B and Lois R Archer Charitable Foundation offers Large Grants for requests exceeding $10,000. Focused on fostering positive change, the foundation supports initiatives in Arts and Culture, Civic Engagement, Education, Health, and Human Services. Eligibility includes 501(c)(3) organizations, while restrictions apply to consecutive grant cycles and non-qualifying purposes such as endowments and fundraising events. Organizations are encouraged to apply for various projects to enhance community well-being.

The Zero Hunger | Zero Waste Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations focused on ending hunger and reducing food waste. Since its inception, the foundation has allocated over $59 million to enhance food security through innovative programs and community engagement. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits addressing critical needs such as food access, nutrition education, and support for vulnerable populations. This initiative aims to create equitable food systems and ensure that no one goes hungry.

The Barbara McDowell and Gerald S. Hartman Foundation Grant supports social justice litigation in the U.S. by providing funding to organizations involved in systemic legal cases. Since 2009, the foundation has awarded over $1.4 million to 49 organizations, enhancing the lives of disadvantaged groups through impactful legal advocacy. The foundation prioritizes cases that align with its focus areas, including children's rights, discrimination, and homelessness, ensuring comprehensive support for societal improvement.

The Jacques Pepin Foundation (JPF) is dedicated to advancing culinary arts education by supporting community kitchens that provide culinary training to individuals facing employment barriers. Grants of up to $10,000 are available for nonprofits to enhance their culinary programs, including operating costs and facility improvements. Eligibility extends to organizations funded in prior cycles, those that applied but were not funded, and newcomers to JPF funding. This initiative aims to empower underserved communities through culinary skills.

The Overwatch Alliance Grants support non-profit organizations with annual revenues of $500,000 or less that aid military members, veterans, and their families. Grants of up to $15,000 are available for impactful projects such as emergency financial assistance, transitional housing, and employment support. Eligible organizations must be IRS-designated 501(c)(3) entities. The Alliance encourages applications from those addressing crucial veteran community needs while reinforcing the importance of community backing for capital projects.