Best Cumberland County Grants for Nonprofits in Pennsylvania

The STEM + Families Science Festival, sponsored by Bayer Fund, is designed for elementary schools, providing $1,500 in funding to 40 selected PTAs. This initiative encourages hands-on STEM experiences for students and their families, fostering engagement and exploration in science. To qualify, PTAs must conduct in-person events within a 55-mile radius of designated regions. This program emphasizes the importance of connecting families through fun and educational STEM activities.

The Pay-It-Forward Scholarship, offered by the Erie Community Foundation, supports Erie County residents enrolled as sophomores, juniors, or seniors at any Penn State University campus. Eligible students must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5, submit a 350-500 word essay, and provide two letters of recommendation while also working part-time. In 2023, over $800,000 in scholarships were awarded to more than 500 students, helping them pursue their educational goals.

BAE Systems offers community investment grants aimed at enhancing the well-being of military families and supporting future workforce development in STEM fields. As a U.S. subsidiary of a global defense and aerospace leader, they require applicants to be recognized 501(c) organizations. The initiative underscores a commitment to charitable partnerships that uplift local communities and contribute positively to society.

The Arts for All Partnership Grant, established in 2015, focuses on enhancing arts accessibility for underserved communities in the Capital Region. This collaborative initiative, backed by The Foundation for Enhancing Communities, prioritizes nonprofit programs that promote cultural appreciation through free performances, ticket subsidies, and educational outreach. Grants of up to $5,000 are available, emphasizing projects that engage diverse audiences and ensure sustainable arts engagement.

The Urgent Issue on a Water Trail Mini Grant offers $2000 to address critical safety concerns on designated PA Water Trails caused by unforeseen events. Eligible applicants include registered non-profits and public entities, and funding must be matched 1:1. This initiative prioritizes restoring safe access for recreational users, ensuring immediate response to conditions that could pose risks, such as storm damage or obstructions. Emphasis is placed on quick solutions to maintain user safety and enjoyment.

The Region Grants Open Grant Round: Hunger Relief, sponsored by the Land O'Lakes Foundation, aims to combat food insecurity in rural communities. Grants between $1,000 and $20,000 are available for organizations supporting food banks, meal programs, and community gardens. With a total investment of $500,000 annually, this initiative prioritizes nonprofits with 501c3 status serving specific regions in the East and West. The program seeks to enhance the vibrancy of member-owner communities while fostering educational and community vitality.

The Gail Deimler Charitable Fund Grant, managed by The Foundation for Enhancing Communities, supports projects that benefit individuals and groups in Cumberland, Dauphin, Perry, Franklin, Lebanon, and Northern York Counties. Eligible applicants include registered 501(c)(3) nonprofits and those with fiscal sponsors. The fund prioritizes healthcare services and programs for people in need, continuing Gail Deimler's legacy of generosity and community support.

The Georgia-Pacific Foundation Grant supports organizations in the Metro Atlanta area, focusing on education, entrepreneurship, community enrichment, and environmental sustainability. Established in 1958, the foundation prioritizes investments that align with its mission and values, promoting long-term well-being within communities where Georgia-Pacific operates. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public schools, and local government entities located within 30 miles of GP manufacturing sites.

The PA Local Share Account (LSA) – Category 4 Facilities Program supports projects that enhance the quality of life in Berks, Cumberland, Westmoreland, and York Counties. Funded by gaming revenues under the PA Race Horse Development and Gaming Act, this initiative aims to invest in community-driven projects that benefit residents and businesses alike, fostering a resilient and thriving local economy.

The Regional Foundation Responsive Grants provide urgent financial support to current or former grantees facing unforeseen, time-sensitive challenges. Grants, up to $25,000, are intended for tactical or strategic needs arising from emergencies, disasters, or critical changes within communities. Examples include natural disasters impacting neighborhoods or sudden leadership transitions. However, requests for ongoing operational costs or event sponsorships are not eligible. The application process is designed for quick turnaround, typically within one week.

The John William Whitman Research Grant, supported by the Army Heritage Center Foundation, offers up to $1,750 to independent researchers exploring military history at the U.S. Army Heritage and Education Center (USAHEC). This prestigious grant aims to facilitate access to a vast collection of over 14 million pages of manuscripts and 3 million photographs, allowing scholars to delve into under-explored topics. Funds cover lodging, meals, and travel expenses, ensuring researchers can focus on their important work.

The Louis J. Appell, Jr., Preservation Fund for Central Pennsylvania supports local preservation efforts by funding maintenance and restoration of historic places in specific Pennsylvania counties. Eligible applicants include public agencies and non-profit organizations, with a matching requirement for grant amounts. Grants aim to enhance public awareness of the region's heritage while addressing preservation challenges through technical assistance and financial support for essential restoration activities.

The Central Pennsylvania Food Bank's Youth Programs address child hunger, with initiatives like School Pantries, Kids Cafés, BackPack programs, and Summer Meals. These programs provide nutritious food to food-insecure children and families, ensuring they have access to healthy meals during school breaks and throughout the year. With over 1.2 million pounds of food distributed annually, these efforts support thousands of households, fostering both nutritional and educational development for children in central Pennsylvania.

The Giant Company and Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful Healing the Planet Grants support tree planting initiatives in Pennsylvania, enhancing environmental health and community well-being. This program, initiated by the non-profit PA CleanWays, empowers local volunteers to tackle litter and illegal dumping while providing funding of up to $4,000 for projects. By investing in green spaces, the program aims to significantly improve water and air quality, contributing to a cleaner and more beautiful Pennsylvania for all residents.

The Alice R. Moomy Pennsylvania State University Scholarship, offered by the Erie Community Foundation, awards funds to Erie County students pursuing degrees in STEM or nursing at any Penn State campus. With over $800,000 distributed in 2023, this scholarship aims to support academically promising individuals, particularly encouraging female applicants with a minimum GPA of 3.0. It reflects a commitment to enhancing educational opportunities within the community.

The Robert L. and Robert C. Ruth Fellowship offers graduate students the opportunity to conduct research at the USAHEC, one of the largest military history libraries globally. Selected applicants can receive a $1,500 fellowship for a three-week summer program, enhancing access to a vast collection of over 14 million pages of manuscripts and 3 million photographs. This fellowship supports diverse topics beyond military history, encouraging students to utilize USAHEC's extensive resources.

Nestlé Purina is dedicated to enhancing the well-being of pets and the communities they serve. Through their event sponsorship program, they support 501(c)(3) tax-exempt pet welfare organizations in the U.S. that focus on the welfare of cats and dogs. Eligible events must be located within 50 miles of their St. Louis headquarters, ensuring that their contributions directly benefit local communities. Purina's commitment to pets and people strengthens the bond between them.

The Battlefield Preservation Fund Grant aims to support initiatives that preserve battlefields and related historic sites. This funding encourages planning and educational efforts, particularly those that engage new audiences in preservation activities. Eligible applicants include public agencies and nonprofits in specified states. Grants can be used for staff support, consultant fees, and educational materials. Applicants must provide a one-to-one match for funding, ensuring strong community involvement in preservation efforts.

The Secular Distribution Grant supports charitable activities aimed at enhancing community well-being, particularly within 100 miles of Coatesville, PA. Focused on health and human services, the grant encourages projects that address community needs, foster self-reliance, and promote civic engagement. With a commitment to philanthropic impact, funding is reserved for organizations demonstrating 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status and a proven need, while maintaining strict eligibility criteria to ensure effective resource allocation.

The Michael Baker International Iraq Survivors Scholarship Fund, established by the Pittsburgh Foundation, provides educational scholarships for children and spouses of U.S. service members who have served since the Iraq war began in March 2003. Eligible applicants must be high school seniors or graduates with a minimum GPA of 2.8, residing in specific Pennsylvania counties. This initiative honors the sacrifices of military families by facilitating access to vocational and higher education opportunities.

The Brinker International Charitable Giving Program focuses on giving back to communities through support for kids, hunger, and education. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501c(3) non-profits and submit requests at least six weeks prior to events. The program does not support individuals, political or religious organizations, or explicit discrimination policies. Funding is provided through monetary donations or in-kind contributions like dining certificates.

The John J. Snyder Fund for Historic Preservation supports the restoration and maintenance of historical structures in Lancaster and Cumberland counties. With grants ranging from $20,000 to $114,600, funding is available for essential repairs such as roof replacements and electrical system updates. This initiative aims to preserve local heritage for future generations. Eligible applicants include community benefit organizations with a current 501(c)(3) designation, ensuring that grants are directed towards impactful projects.

The Ferguson Cares Grant is an essential aspect of Ferguson's Sustainability strategy, focusing on social challenges and community wellbeing. This grant supports nonprofit organizations in the U.S. dedicated to affordable housing, skilled trades workforce development, clean water access, and enhancing local economic quality of life. Ferguson aims to create lasting partnerships that drive positive impact within their operational regions, reflecting their commitment to social responsibility and community support.

The Emerging Philanthropist Program Endowment Fund empowers Harrisburg's future leaders through philanthropic education and engagement. Celebrating its 10th year, the program offers monthly sessions from February to November, culminating in a $5,000 grant awarded to a selected nonprofit. Established by EPP alumni in 2014, the Endowment Fund enhances community impact with competitive grants, emphasizing mental health support. To date, over $40,000 has been awarded, fostering local nonprofit capacity and community service.

The Charles B. Degenstein Foundation Grant supports 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organizations within a 75-mile radius of Sunbury, PA. Established in 1989, the Foundation seeks to enhance community quality of life through funding in areas like conservation, health care, social services, and education. Applications should demonstrate community support and clear project goals. Note that grants do not cover all costs, and applications focused on political activities are discouraged. For more information, visit their website.

The McInroy-Sheffer People Trust Scholarship supports students from specific Pennsylvania counties—Cumberland, Dauphin, Lycoming, Tioga, or York—who are graduating high school and planning to enroll as freshmen. Eligible candidates must demonstrate financial need and intend to study at one of several local colleges in fields like Culinary Arts, Nursing, or Business. This scholarship is a one-time award, aiming to assist students in their educational pursuits.

Nestlé Purina Animal Welfare Grants focus on enhancing the well-being of pets and their owners through monetary donations to 501(c)(3) tax-exempt pet welfare organizations in the U.S. These grants support capacity building, capital improvements, and spay/neuter funding. The program aims to strengthen relationships between pets and people, particularly in communities near Nestlé Purina facilities, ensuring that both pets and their owners thrive together.