Best Grants for Churches in Texas

The George and Mary Josephine Hamman Foundation, established in 1954, supports education, arts, scientific projects, and religious advancement in Texas. With over $132.2 million awarded in grants and scholarships, it aids qualified 501(c)(3) organizations and institutions. The Foundation is dedicated to enhancing community welfare through various initiatives, including scholarships for students and funding for medical and research institutions. Its commitment to charitable causes has made a significant impact over its 70 years of service.

The McCombs Foundation, established in 1998, serves as the primary philanthropic arm of the McCombs family. With a legacy rooted in generosity, the Foundation has contributed over $125 million to civic causes in San Antonio and Texas since 1981. Their approach emphasizes creating value from donations without strings attached, reflecting the family's commitment to impactful giving. The Foundation aims to foster sustainable community development, inspired by the family's history of philanthropy during challenging times.

The Think.Change Initiative Grant Program by the Paso del Norte Health Foundation invites letters of intent from eligible nonprofit organizations. The program aims to reduce stigma related to mental health and substance use conditions through evidence-based trainings and education. Priority areas include training for community members and support for individuals with lived experience. This initiative addresses critical issues in mental health, focusing on enhancing community understanding and support systems.

Mission

Baptist Health Foundation of San Antonio is committed to honoring God and our Baptist heritage by fostering and funding health initiatives in our community.

Grantmaking

Baptist Health Foundation of San Antonio provides grants to around 100 nonprofits each year, supporting a wide range of organizations, from community food pantries to churches and medical facilities. At BHFSA, we deeply value the opportunity to foster long-lasting relationships and grow our understanding of the challenges affecting the residents of our service area.

BHFSA Community Impact Grants

Small organizations do big things and are incredibly valuable in our community. Baptist Health Foundation of San Antonio recognizes this and provides Community Impact Grants of up to $12,000 to support smaller initiatives and organizations that have a large impact on community health.

Specific Grant Requirements

• The organization must have had less than $250,000 in actual revenue during the most recently completed fiscal year (Churches are exempt from this requirement);
• The organization must have an annual operating budget of at least $15,000 (for the fiscal year that includes July 1, 2026);
• The application amount must not exceed 20 percent of the organization’s total actual revenue in the most recently completed fiscal year;
• The application amount must fall in the range of $3,000-$12,000; and
• Organizations that received a Community Impact Grant in the most recent grant year may apply, but preference will be given to organizations that have not recently received funding from the Foundation.

The John Reagan Harris Community Fund Grant, supported by the East Texas Communities Foundation, aims to enhance the Center, Texas community through civic, religious, charitable, scientific, literary, or educational projects. Eligible applicants include tax-exempt nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status or governmental units. The grant encourages funding requests not exceeding $10,000, allowing for support of new initiatives or expansion of existing programs.

The Lucille and John B. Dougherty Trust provides grants to charitable organizations, particularly in education, health, and human services, primarily benefiting Brazos County, Texas. Established by Anna Lucille Dougherty, the trust honors her legacy by supporting community initiatives. Grants range from $5,000 to $10,000, with an average of 19 grants awarded annually, totaling approximately $240,000 in annual giving. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt, while endowment requests are not funded.

The Gilbert and Thyra Plass Charitable Trust aims to enhance the quality of life for residents in Brazos County, Texas, by supporting diverse charitable initiatives. Established through the legacy of Dr. Gilbert and Dr. Thyra Plass, the trust focuses on areas such as arts, education, environment, health, human services, and religion. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501(c)(3) entities and maintain a local office, ensuring their initiatives directly benefit the community.

The L.B. Danford Charitable Trust Grant supports educational, health, human services, and religious initiatives primarily in Brazos and Grimes Counties, Texas. Established in 1992, it honors Luther Bernard Danford's legacy, providing annual grants averaging $40,000. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt and located within the specified counties. Applications are accepted year-round, with a deadline of July 31 for September's annual meeting review. Note that the trust does not fund endowments.

The Marshall and Ellen Peters Family Foundation, established by Ellen Bookman Peters, supports charitable organizations primarily in Brazos County, Texas. With a strong commitment to community service, the Foundation funds initiatives in various program areas, including arts, education, health, and human services. Mrs. Peters, a dedicated Presbyterian and community leader, left a lasting legacy through her philanthropic efforts. The Foundation continues to honor her memory by contributing an average of $50,000 annually to enhance local community well-being.

The Tyrous R. Williams and Ruth F. Williams Charitable Trust Grant supports health and human services, specifically aiding heart and cancer patients and funding related research in Brazos County, Texas. Established in 1993, the trust honors Tyrous R. Williams's legacy of compassion. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt, with a focus on local needs. The trust prioritizes assistance for cancer and heart patients, ensuring that funds directly benefit the community.

The Katherine C. Carmody Charitable Trust, established in 1957, supports 501(c)(3) charitable organizations in Texas, focusing on education, human services, and religion-related programs. Grants are primarily awarded to organizations in Navarro County and the Dallas area. Organizations must wait two years after receiving a grant before reapplying. This trust has contributed millions to various Texas charities, reflecting Ms. Carmody's commitment to her community and charitable causes.

The Thelma Braun & Bocklett Family Foundation Grant, established in 1980, supports quality education, cultural, human services, and health care for underserved populations. The foundation prioritizes nonprofit organizations with annual budgets under $20 million and particularly favors programs benefiting Grayson County, Texas, in arts and education. Grants typically last one year, and special consideration is given to projects that address vital community needs, enhancing the lives of local youth.

The Helen Greathouse Charitable Trust, founded by Helen Greathouse in 1997, focuses on supporting charities that assist children and individuals facing physical and mental challenges in Midland County, Texas. The trust awards grants exclusively for religious, charitable, scientific, literary, or educational purposes. With an average grant size ranging from $10,000 to $30,000 and approximately 60 grants given annually, the trust has a significant impact on the local community, continuing Helen's legacy of generosity.

The Texoma Community Foundation's Fannin County Hospital Authority Fund aims to enhance the health and wellness of Fannin County residents. Focused on mental health and access to care, it prioritizes organizations providing direct services in the area. The Foundation seeks projects addressing mental health access and increasing the nursing workforce across its four counties, including Marshall, Bryan, Grayson, and Fannin. This initiative reflects TCF's commitment to community well-being in Texas and Oklahoma.

The Young Family Foundation Grant supports higher education by providing scholarships to graduates of specific Texas high schools. It also funds youth activities and community projects through local organizations. The Foundation seeks to promote goodwill by assisting various charitable initiatives and aims to ensure that applicants are qualified, tax-exempt entities committed to benefiting the community. This grant fosters educational and social development within the YK Communications service area.

The Dow Promise Grant empowers communities by addressing the unique barriers faced by Black youth and adults in the U.S. This program provides grants up to $10,000 for initiatives that promote social, economic, and environmental advancements. Since its inception in 2000, the Dow Promise Program has been committed to fostering equitable opportunities and positive social change, ultimately contributing to long-term community success and a brighter future for all.

The Black Fund of Central Texas aims to empower Black-led organizations and strengthen the Black community through targeted investments in various impact areas, including arts, education, health, and advocacy. With over $850,000 granted since 2022, this fund prioritizes fairness and opportunity while fostering collaboration and community growth. In the current cycle, $250,000 will be awarded across 20 grants to eligible nonprofit organizations operating within the Central Texas region, enhancing individual and community prosperity.

The Scanlan Foundation Grant aims to foster a culture of vocations within the Roman Catholic Church in Texas. By focusing on priesthood, religious life, and strong families, the foundation supports initiatives in marriage preparation, Catholic education, and evangelization. This grant seeks to enhance access to faith-based resources, ensuring that individuals are equipped to live out their vocations while contributing to a vibrant community of faith across the state.

The Scanlan Foundation Grant aims to foster a culture of vocations within the Catholic Church in Texas by supporting initiatives that promote priesthood, religious life, and strong families. Through strategic funding, the foundation prioritizes education, marriage preparation, and community support to enhance the spiritual growth of individuals and families. This grants program is a vital resource for organizations committed to nurturing faith and service, ensuring that the values of the Catholic faith continue to thrive in the community.

The Texas Methodist Foundation Grant supports innovative and sustainable solutions to improve the quality of life for communities in Texas and New Mexico. Emphasizing faith-based social impact, the grant prioritizes organizations that empower those in poverty through strategic partnerships and measurable outcomes. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations that align with the foundation's mission. This grant cycle offers both competitive and invitation-based funding opportunities aimed at fostering hope, health, and belonging.

The Robert E & Evelyn McKee Foundation Grant focuses on charitable purposes, primarily supporting organizations that qualify under 501(c)(3) of the IRS Code. It awards funds in various areas including civic, cultural, education, healthcare, and youth activities. Eligible recipients are local charities and certain selected colleges for scholarships. However, the foundation does not fund other foundations, organizations outside the U.S., or individual financial aid. Awards are guided by IRS minimum requirements.

The Marietta K. Randall Foundation Trust provides annual grants to 501(c)(3) organizations that align with its charitable goals, which include supporting educational, scientific, cultural, and religious entities. The foundation emphasizes its commitment to organizations that have been recipients of contributions during the founder's lifetime, ensuring a focus on established charitable relationships. Grants are exclusively for tax-exempt organizations and do not extend to individuals or for-profit entities.

The Joyce Peugh Pate Capper Charitable Trust Grant supports charitable initiatives in Fort Worth, Texas, with a focus on the performing and visual arts, libraries, churches, and hospitals. Established by philanthropist Joyce Peugh Pate Capper, the trust prioritizes organizations active during her lifetime. Eligible applicants must operate within Tarrant County, while grants are not awarded for animal-related causes. This grant fosters community enrichment and cultural development in the region.

Leo Layette Livingston

Leo L. Livingston was a devoted civic leader and local business man in the Taylor community, serving on the Johns Community Hospital until his retirement in February 1988. He served on the Johns Community Hospital board of directors for 21 years, including ten years in the capacity of board president. He is credited with having had a major influence in getting the current hospital built, both in fundraising and directing construction. Born in Winters, Texas on February 24, 1913, he and his wife first came to Taylor in 1940 with Texas Power and Light Company. He later served as an accountant at Taylor Refining Company and in 1949, he began his long-standing association with Southwestern Life Insurance Company. In 1957, he earned the designation as Charter Life Underwriter. From the onset, Leo Livingston immersed himself in community service having served as chairman of the Red Cross Drive, the Community Chest Drive, and was president during the organization's change to the United Fund in 1959. He served as president of the Taylor Chamber of Commerce in 1955 and was director of the Industrial Development and Greeters Committees of the Chamber. Mr. Livingston was also a past member, director and president of the Taylor Kiwanis Club and served as president of the Taylor Country Club. An active member of First United Methodist Church, Mr. Livingston served his church in numerous capacities including Sunday school superintendent, chairman of the church board, and various committees. In 1975 he was honored as Taylor's Outstanding Citizen by the Taylor Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Livingston served on the Taylor ISD Board of Education for five years and as its chairman, was involved with bond elections and the construction of the Taylor high school facility.

Leo L. Livingston Fund Benefiting Taylor, Texas Nonprofit Organizations

The Community Foundation of the Brazos Valley, headquartered in Bryan – Texas, administers a charitable endowment fund that was established in memory of Leo L. Livingston by Doris Livingston to benefit nonprofit organizations in the Taylor, Texas community. A local Grants Review Committee comprised of Taylor residents and business leaders is accepting applications from nonprofit organizations for grants up to $10,000 for programs that support the Livingston's goals of continually improving the quality of life in Taylor, Texas.

The Grants Review Committee will consider grants to:

• Support effective, established programs;
• Help launch innovative, new programs; or
• Fund unique capital needs that will increase an organization's capacity.

The Episcopal Health Foundation of Dallas provides annual grants to support parishes, schools, and non-profit organizations within the Diocese of Dallas. Focus areas include food insecurity, homelessness, poverty alleviation, and health services. Eligible organizations must operate within the diocese's geographic boundaries and align with its Christian mission. Grants aim to strengthen communities through innovative programs that address basic human needs and improve lives. Applications must meet specific criteria and deadlines to be considered.

The Buster Coleman Charitable Foundation Grant supports various charitable initiatives, with an emphasis on religious, educational, scientific, and literary purposes, as well as the prevention of cruelty to children and animals. Founded by Buster Coleman in his will, this private foundation typically awards grants averaging $2,500, providing approximately six grants annually, with a total yearly giving of around $15,000. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt to qualify.

The Rural West-Central Texas- Paula Windham Fund Grants support non-profit organizations that enhance the quality of life in rural communities. Applicants must interview with Foundation staff and apply via the Foundant GLM system. Eligible organizations include those in specific Texas counties and those within a 150-mile radius of Oplin. The fund focuses on areas such as arts, community development, education, and health services, honoring the legacy of Dr. Paula Andree Windham.