Best Housing Grants in Illinois

Northern Trust

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Since 1889, when our founder Byron Smith built Northern Trust on our enduring principles, we have shown time and again that we exist to serve not only clients, but also the community at large.

Corporate social responsibility and philanthropy are essential elements of our mission and culture. Driven by our strategic focus on diversity, equity and inclusion, community engagement and environmental sustainability, we strive to be socially accountable – to ourselves, our stakeholders and the public.

The Northern Trust Foundation Grants

Increasing access to essential human needs will broaden opportunities for Chicago's young people and support them in fulfilling their potential and achieving long-term financial success. The Northern Trust Foundation is focusing its funding on communities in Chicago's South and West Sides by providing general operating support and program grants that specifically target youth ages 16-24.

Funding Priorities & Objectives

Northern Trust prioritizes the following areas to help low-income youth ages 16-24 on Chicago’s South and West sides.

Food Security: Youth who experience food insecurity are more likely to struggle in school and face both mental and physical health challenges. We prioritize funding for programs that:

• Increase access to, awareness of, and participation in free food distribution programs and services
• Raise awareness of, and increase participation in, state and federal nutrition assistance programs (e.g., SNAP, WIC, Summer Food Service Program, etc.)
• Increase access to affordable, nutritious foods for purchase, particularly within food deserts, and leverage innovative solutions to address the issue of access to food

Affordable Housing: Stable housing can serve as the foundation for a secure future. We prioritize funding to organizations assisting people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness with access to safe and permanent housing through programs that:

• Support youth experiencing homelessness and help navigate and access services available in their local communities with a goal of getting them into permanent housing
• Assist low-income college students by providing supportive services and affordable housing
• Provide temporary or permanent free/affordable housing options for youth; highest priority will be given to programs that focus on moving youth efficiently into permanent housing solutions
• Provide housing-related case management, foster care or other services to youth who are living in unsafe or unstable home environments including LBGTQ+ and youth transitioning out of the foster care system

Educational Excellence: Low-income youth attend and complete college at a much lower rate than their peers. We prioritize funding for programs that support students “to and through” college (including trade schools) and specifically focus on removing barriers for low-income youth that:

• Focus on academic readiness, including college-level coursework during high school, and high school completion with an emphasis on post-secondary school enrollment
• Support post-secondary school persistence, including those that focus on alternatives to remedial coursework
• Assist students through the college search, application and enrollment process, ensuring students ultimately are admitted to, enroll in and attend schools which are a good match and fit for their individual needs
• Provide access to financial aid for low-income youth and/or provide ongoing financial planning and credit building for students and their families, to ensure students complete their post-secondary education

Accessible Healthcare: The transition from child to adult healthcare is a greater challenge for low-income individuals. We prioritize funding to hospitals, healthcare centers and community organizations providing physical or mental healthcare that:

• Provide access to physical or mental healthcare for free or at a sliding scale
• Provide primary and preventative care, including health screenings for young women
• Focus on providing solutions that remove common barriers to care among this population (e.g., telehealth visits, pop-up clinics, after-hours appointments, etc.)
• Raise awareness and provide education of healthcare services and/or Medicaid and assist this population to apply for and access Medicaid

The Affordable Housing and Supportive Services Demonstration (AHSSD) aims to enhance housing stability and well-being for American citizens residing in affordable housing. By funding Community Action Agencies and tribes, the initiative fosters public welfare engagement and service enrollment. The program addresses diverse needs, offering referrals, case management, and direct services in education, childcare, mental health, and more, ultimately supporting economic mobility and reducing dependency among vulnerable populations.

The American Electric Power Foundation provides grants to 501(c)(3) organizations focused on educational improvement, particularly in STEM fields, and basic human services such as hunger and housing. Organizations must operate within AEP's service territory or have a broader beneficial purpose. The Foundation also supports social justice initiatives and environmental protection efforts. Eligible applicants must affirm compliance with anti-discrimination policies and demonstrate commitment to diversity and inclusion.

The Neighborhood Builders Program, supported by Bank of America, empowers 501(c)(3) nonprofits through a two-year leadership development initiative. Participants receive funding, training, and networking opportunities to enhance their impact in communities. Since its inception, the program has invested over $346 million, training more than 4,000 leaders. The initiative focuses on advancing social mobility and economic opportunities, ensuring affordable housing, and fostering resilient communities. This program is vital for nonprofits aiming to strengthen their leadership and community engagement.

The Older Adults Home Modification Grant Program aims to assist nonprofit organizations, governments, and housing authorities in making essential modifications to homes for low-income seniors. By focusing on safety and accessibility, the program seeks to reduce fall risks, enhance general safety, and improve seniors' ability to live independently. This initiative promotes aging in place, allowing seniors to remain in their homes rather than transition to nursing facilities, thereby fostering a sense of community and well-being.

The Saint-Gobain Corporation Foundation Direct Grants program provides support to non-profit organizations in focus areas including STEM education, sustainable construction, and workforce development. The foundation aims to foster community development and environmental stewardship. Eligible applicants include IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) organizations and accredited educational institutions in the U.S. The Foundation prioritizes partnerships that allow employee involvement and volunteer support, aiming to build meaningful relationships with grantees.

The Bank of America Charitable Foundation focuses on supporting organizations that empower communities through basic needs, income creation, and stable housing. By investing in health and job opportunities, they aim to enhance economic mobility for low- and moderate-income families. Their partnerships target vulnerable populations, ensuring equitable access to resources that foster community vitality and resilience. This initiative emphasizes the importance of stable housing as a foundation for personal and communal growth.

The Fair Housing Initiatives Program (FHIP) aims to combat discriminatory housing practices through funding provided to various organizations. Established by Congress in 1988 and made permanent in 1992, FHIP supports entities that educate the public and enforce fair housing rights. The program offers competitive grants across four initiatives, including the Private Enforcement Initiative, which enables national non-profit organizations to investigate violations and uphold fair housing laws effectively.

The Entergy Charitable Foundation Grant focuses on supporting initiatives that foster thriving communities through education, poverty solutions, and environmental programs. The foundation prioritizes funding for 501(c)(3) organizations and similar entities. Key areas include education development, innovative poverty solutions, and environmental restoration efforts, such as coastal wetland preservation. Organizations are encouraged to apply at least three months before funding is needed, ensuring timely support for impactful community projects.

The Old National Bank Foundation offers grants to nonprofit organizations for community impact initiatives across Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, Tennessee, Michigan, Minnesota, Iowa, and Wisconsin. Focused on four key areas—Affordable Housing, Workforce Development, Economic Development, and Financial Empowerment—the foundation prioritizes programs that support underrepresented communities. Organizations must have 501(c)(3) status and align with the foundation’s funding priorities to qualify for grants, which can be applied for every two years.

The Cudahy Fund offers general community grants focusing on social services, health, education, environment, and arts for under-resourced populations in Metropolitan Chicago and Wisconsin. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. The fund aims to support initiatives that enhance community well-being, providing safety nets for marginalized groups and promoting access to quality education and cultural experiences. This fund does not support individual grants or projects outside its geographic focus.

The Level 1 Fair Housing Grant, offered by the National Association of REALTORS®, supports initiatives aimed at educating REALTORS® on fair housing issues. Grants can fund classes, forums, or workshops, with a maximum award of $3,000. Starting in 2025, the grant will also support expenses related to the At Home With Diversity class to align with new training requirements. This initiative ensures REALTORS® have the resources to promote diversity and inclusion in their communities.

The Level 1 Housing Opportunity Grants, provided by the National Association of Realtors, aim to enhance education on housing affordability for REALTORS® and the community. Grants of up to $3,000 support various initiatives, including forums, speakers, and stakeholder meetings. This initiative encourages collaboration and knowledge sharing to address pressing housing issues and promote affordability in communities. Eligible associations can receive one grant annually, with reimbursement requests due by December 19, 2025.

The Level 3 Housing Opportunity Grants, offered by the National Association of Realtors, support innovative projects aimed at enhancing housing opportunities. These grants are designed for initiatives that involve collaboration with non-REALTOR® partners and require significant REALTOR® involvement. Eligible projects should demonstrate potential for community impact and cannot include activities previously funded by Housing Opportunity grants. This initiative aims to foster growth and diversity within communities.

The Level 2 Housing Opportunity Grants, provided by the National Association of REALTORS®, aim to address affordable housing challenges within communities. With a maximum award of $7,500, these grants encourage collaborations among local agencies to enhance housing access. Eligible activities include forums, expos, and studies that promote housing opportunities. Associations can receive one grant per year, and funds are disbursed via a reimbursement process, with requests due by December 19, 2025.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is inviting eligible organizations to submit unsolicited research proposals targeting key areas like housing affordability and homelessness. This initiative aims to foster high-quality research that informs housing policies and programs. Projects must secure matching funds of at least 50% of the total cost and align with HUD's research priorities to qualify for cooperative agreements, ensuring ongoing collaboration throughout the research process.

The Horizon Bank Community Grant Program aims to enhance local communities by funding initiatives in education, arts, and economic development. With grants starting at $5,000, the program supports 501(c)(3) organizations addressing housing needs for low- to moderate-income families. Applications are accepted annually, with a strong emphasis on corporate citizenship and community involvement. However, grants are not available for political activities or organizations that discriminate. This commitment reflects Horizon Bank's dedication to fostering community growth and responsibility.

The Disaster Grants Program by LSC provides vital funding to organizations aiding survivors of government-declared emergencies. It empowers legal aid groups to deliver essential services to low-income disaster survivors, ensuring access to legal assistance during crises. The program also educates communities on disaster legal services and prepares them for future emergencies, enhancing resilience and response capabilities. By supporting various grant types, the initiative addresses immediate needs and fosters long-term recovery strategies.

The St. Mary's Bank Charitable Foundation 1908 Funds Grants provide financial support to nonprofit organizations in New Hampshire, focusing on community development and services. Established to uphold St. Mary’s Bank's commitment to social responsibility, these grants, ranging from $500 to $5,000, aim to foster financial independence and address issues like homelessness, youth support, and civic engagement. The Foundation prioritizes projects that benefit local communities and promote long-term sustainability.

St. Mary's Bank Charitable Foundation Community Support Grants aim to enhance community welfare by providing financial support to nonprofit organizations. With a commitment to 'people helping people' since 1908, the foundation focuses on areas like youth programming, homelessness, and civic support. In 2023 alone, they donated over $200,000 to 190 organizations, reflecting their dedication to improving lives in New Hampshire. They prioritize funding for nonprofits within their service areas, ensuring impactful contributions to local communities.

The Hendricks Family Foundation offers operating grants exceeding $100,000 to support new and existing projects that make a measurable impact in priority areas such as career development, education, public safety, and community vitality in Beloit, Wisconsin. Organizations must hold 501(c)(3) status and demonstrate meaningful partnerships and activities in the community. Letters of Inquiry can be submitted anytime, with eligibility determined through an initial quiz.

The Big Bets Fellowship: Economic Opportunity in the United States is a transformative 4-month program designed to empower emerging leaders to tackle economic challenges head-on. With a focus on innovative solutions for job creation, affordable housing, and equitable access to resources, the fellowship equips participants with essential skills and a supportive network. The initiative aims to drive systemic change and promote sustainable economic prosperity, addressing inequalities while fostering resilient communities across the nation.

OneRural provides essential technical assistance to rural organizations, fostering the development of affordable housing and community initiatives. This program offers tailored support, helping organizations enhance their operational capabilities and drive impactful change. By accessing expert resources and training, participants can effectively navigate challenges, improve program outcomes, and strengthen community resilience. This initiative targets nonprofits and tribal entities, ensuring that rural communities receive the guidance needed for sustainable growth and development.

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 Siletz Tribal Charitable Contribution Fund, established by the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians, has distributed over $16.3 million in grants since 1999. It supports charitable organizations and local governments in eleven Oregon counties, as well as Native American initiatives across the U.S. The fund prioritizes education, health, public safety, addiction prevention, housing, arts, and environmental preservation, ensuring the Tribe's commitment to community support and cultural heritage.

The Alvah H. and Wyline P. Chapman Foundation offers grants to support charitable, educational, and community-focused initiatives, primarily in Florida and Georgia. Eligible applicants must be IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) organizations. The foundation prioritizes projects that address children's welfare, education, multicultural understanding, substance abuse prevention, and homelessness. Grants typically do not exceed $15,000, and proposals must be endorsed by a Foundation Director. Interested parties should submit a Letter of Inquiry for consideration.

The East Missouri Foundation Grant supports 501(c)(3) organizations focused on providing essential services such as housing, healthcare, food, and transportation for vulnerable populations including seniors, persons with disabilities, and the homeless. The foundation issues one-time grants for specific purposes and does not fund individuals or organizations outside its defined priorities. Grants are determined by a board of directors committed to enhancing community welfare through targeted charitable initiatives.