Best Disaster Preparedness and Relief Grants in Illinois

United Way of Greater St. Louis

Our Mission: The United Way of Greater St. Louis mission is to mobilize the community with one goal in mind – helping people live their best possible lives. We unite people, resources and funding to help build strong and equitable communities where everyone can thrive.

Safety Net

United Way’s Safety Net is a collaborative network of agencies that deliver an array of essential direct services to address the region’s most pressing needs, helping families and individuals remain and work toward stability. Safety Net agencies provide direct services that address basic, urgent needs – such as access to food and housing— as well as supports that help move individuals and families toward stability, including education, health and well-being, workforce access, and financial mobility.

Safety Net Funding

United Way of Greater St. Louis is now accepting applications for its Safety Net Funding cycle and invites all eligible agencies across its 16-county region in Missouri and Illinois, including those not currently receiving United Way funding, to apply. United Way equips 160 local nonprofits with vital funding and training resources to support measurable impact across its five impact areas. Organizations selected will receive a three-year contract and become part of the UWGSL member agency network.

United Way’s Impact Areas

• Basic Needs 
• Community Stability and Crisis Response 
• Early Childhood and Youth Success 
• Health and Wellbeing 
• Jobs and Financial Mobility 

While needs are great across the five impact areas, United Way will use data derived from its landscape analysis of community needs to inform how service areas will be prioritized to ensure the region has access to a strong and resilient network as needs arise.

The LPGA Foundation

The LPGA Foundation supports women and young people through programs and initiatives aimed at empowering them through the game of golf. Since its founding, The LPGA Foundation has touched more than 500,000 lives through various scholarship and financial assistance programs, along with its flagship junior golf program, LPGA*USGA Girls Golf. The LPGA Foundation was established in 1991 and is a non-profit 501(c)(3) charitable organization, which supports junior golf programs, scholarships, and financial assistance programs for women and young ladies.

Dolores Hope Financial Assistance Initiative

The LPGA Foundation has a tradition of taking care of its members and others in the golf industry. The Financial Assistance Fund was renamed the Dolores Hope LPGA Financial Assistance Initiative in 2007 to acknowledge Hope’s generous support of the fund and her long-time friendship with the LPGA.

The Bellevue Heights Church Foundation, established over 30 years ago, has significantly contributed to humanitarian efforts and theological education by awarding millions in grants. Its Student Endowment Fund supports Master of Divinity students with monthly scholarships, benefiting 35 to 40 students annually. All church members can participate in the Foundation's governance, and grant recipients must provide updates on their projects. Applications must be submitted in hard copy, following specific guidelines.

The Creative Economy Fund offers vital support to digital creators and entertainment professionals affected by the LA Wildfires. Catering to individuals in film, music, and performing arts, this fund provides assistance for those who have experienced home loss or damage. Eligible applicants include direct creators, employees of talent agencies, and other creative professionals, ensuring a broad reach within the entertainment community. With a focus on personalized resources and guidance, the fund aims to foster resilience in a challenging industry.

The Procter & Gamble U.S. Large Site Community Grant supports initiatives that enhance the lives of individuals within 50 miles of P&G facilities. Focused on areas like infant development and hygiene, this competitive grant seeks to partner with organizations aligned with its mission. Interested groups should verify eligibility through the P&G grant portal. While many applications are received, only a select few will be funded due to high demand.

The bp Foundation Community Fund Grant, in partnership with Legacy Foundation, aims to support organizations in Hammond, East Chicago, and Whiting impacted by the August 2025 storms. This grant offers up to $5,000 to assist with recovery efforts and enhance future preparedness. Eligible applicants include 501c3 nonprofits, churches, schools, local governments, and first responder agencies that have faced damage or service interruptions due to the storms.

The Strengthening & Sustaining Mobile Healthcare Grant Program, offered by the Mobile Healthcare Association, aims to enhance emergency preparedness for mobile health clinics. This annual grant supports activities such as developing action plans, training staff, and ensuring operational readiness for crises like hurricanes and floods. By facilitating these initiatives, the program works to reduce health disparities and promote equitable access to quality healthcare for all communities.

The Procter & Gamble Strategic Fund Grant aims to enhance lives through impactful initiatives such as infant development, hygiene, and oral care. As a highly competitive fund, it supports IRS-designated 501(c)(3) organizations that provide national programs where P&G can uniquely add value. Interested applicants should carefully assess their eligibility and align with the grant's specific focus areas before applying.

VCA Charities is dedicated to enhancing pet ownership by offering Disaster Relief Grants to support animal welfare organizations impacted by natural disasters. These grants provide funding for essential veterinary care, pet supplies, temporary shelter, and transportation costs for rescued animals. Prioritizing immediate relief, VCA Charities also assesses preparedness requests at year-end. The program aims to alleviate the suffering of pets and ensure they remain in loving homes during crises, addressing both urgent and long-term needs in affected communities.

The American Guild of Musical Artists Relief Fund provides emergency financial assistance to eligible performing arts professionals facing unexpected critical needs. This support aids in covering essential living expenses, including housing, healthcare, and utilities, to help prevent eviction or utility shut-offs. Applicants must be current members in good standing and provide necessary documentation to confirm their eligibility. This fund aims to ensure the well-being of artists during challenging times.

The AFM Local 802 Musicians’ Emergency Relief Fund provides emergency financial assistance to eligible performing arts and entertainment professionals facing unexpected critical needs. This fund supports basic living expenses, including healthcare, housing, and utilities, to help prevent eviction or shut-offs. To qualify, applicants must be current members in good standing and demonstrate financial need. However, the fund does not cover expenses such as credit cards, personal loans, and tuition.

The Broadcasters Foundation of America Emergency Grant provides vital financial assistance to broadcasters facing acute financial hardship due to natural disasters or emergencies. These one-time grants support those who have dedicated years to the broadcasting profession and are in need of help to recover. Applications can be submitted by individual broadcasters or their employers within 30 days of the event, ensuring timely support for those affected.

The Disability Foundation, in partnership with The Dayton Foundation, invites proposals for grants aimed at supporting organizations providing direct services to individuals with disabilities. Eligible applicants include community-based nonprofits and academic institutions. Grants, capped at $10,000, can be used for various purposes such as enhancing service accessibility, purchasing necessary equipment, and expanding services. This initiative seeks to empower disabled individuals by ensuring they receive essential resources and support.

The Bausch Foundation, established by Bausch Health Companies Inc., supports global charitable initiatives focused on disease prevention, improving patient outcomes, and education related to its core businesses. The Foundation also aids disaster recovery efforts and assists underserved communities. Applications for funding are accepted continuously, with quarterly reviews, ensuring timely support for impactful projects. All submissions must be unsolicited, and decisions by the Advisory Committee are final, fostering a transparent giving process.

The Republic Services Community Grant Program supports local nonprofit organizations focused on neighborhood revitalization, safety, disaster relief, and social services. Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations can apply once annually through an online application process. The program emphasizes a non-discrimination policy, ensuring services are provided without bias. However, funding is not available for individuals, government entities, schools, or religious organizations. This initiative reflects Republic Services' commitment to community engagement and support.

The Petco Foundation offers disaster relief support for animal welfare organizations affected by disasters. Eligible applicants include authorized members of IRS-designated 501c3 nonprofits, government agency representatives with operational insight, and invited for-profit entities focused on animal welfare. However, the foundation does not fund individuals, organizations outside the U.S., or those whose primary mission does not relate to animal welfare. This initiative aims to provide critical assistance during times of crisis.

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 Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation Grants aim to enhance the life-saving capabilities of public safety organizations. Established in 2005, the foundation supports funding for life-saving equipment, prevention education, scholarships, and disaster relief initiatives. Eligible applicants include public safety entities located within 60 miles of a Firehouse Subs restaurant. This program emphasizes early application submission, as only a limited number of applications are accepted quarterly.

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 Parkinson Family Foundation Grant supports organizations focusing on Food & Water, Faith & Evangelism, and Health & Humanitarian Efforts. Applications are open year-round, with grants ranging from $1,000 to $5,000; larger requests are typically declined. Eligible applicants include schools, state governments, and 501(c)(3) nonprofits. The Foundation emphasizes selectivity and prioritizes organizations with established relationships and those promoting American ideals like freedom and justice.

The Enterprise Mobility™ Philanthropic Giving program focuses on enhancing community engagement through grants aimed at supporting health, education, arts, and disaster relief initiatives. Only Enterprise Mobility team members and their spouses or domestic partners who volunteer with a nonprofit can apply for funding. The program prioritizes sustainable projects that uplift local communities and address pressing social issues, fostering a culture of responsibility and giving back to society.

The Pratt Family Foundation Grant, established in 1999, supports initiatives in education, healthcare, and community welfare. It prioritizes organizations that aid housing assistance, support for women in crisis, and disadvantaged youth programs, particularly in North Carolina. The Foundation favors established religious and charitable organizations that are tax-exempt and have a local presence. Preference is given to areas connected to the Pratt family, such as Texas and Florida, ensuring impactful contributions to community development.

The DEW Foundation Grant supports tax-exempt charitable organizations globally, aiming to promote the common good through financial contributions and personal involvement. The foundation prioritizes charities where family members are actively involved and focuses on ministries, health, education, and community service. While it may fund its own projects, it typically does not exceed 10% of an organization's operating budget and avoids supporting politically affiliated causes or normal church operations. Innovative and effective organizations are especially welcome.

The Domtar Community Investment Grant supports nonprofits and charities in areas where the company operates, focusing on education, environmental sustainability, and community humanitarian needs. Eligible organizations include charitable groups, while ineligible entities encompass individuals, discriminatory organizations, and political causes. Applications are accepted online from January 1 to November 30, with reviews conducted bi-monthly. This initiative aims to create meaningful connections between charitable efforts and the social benefits derived from Domtar's business operations.

The Erie Insurance Giving Network Grant supports organizations focused on community building, safety, and environmental responsibility. Grants under $10,000 can be submitted at any time, while larger requests follow specific deadlines. Priority is given to organizations with community representation in their governing bodies. Eligible entities include nonprofit organizations, accredited educational institutions, and municipalities. The initiative emphasizes a commitment to diversity and inclusion, aligning with ERIE's corporate values.

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.

The Kroger Foundation is dedicated to uplifting communities through significant charitable contributions, having donated over $1.9 billion in the past six years. Their focus on combating hunger through the Zero Hunger | Zero Waste initiative exemplifies their commitment to social impact. Annually, they provide over $300 million to nonprofit organizations aligned with their mission, promoting health, education, and disaster relief while fostering diversity and inclusion. This initiative reflects Kroger's belief that strong communities are a shared responsibility.