Best Homelessness Grants in Pennsylvania

The Amcor Community Support Grants Program, administered by the Amcor Cares Foundation, provides funding for projects that benefit local communities. Grants are available to 501(c)(3) organizations and accredited educational institutions that serve Amcor Flexibles North America facility communities. Focus areas include fighting hunger, supporting disaster relief, expanding STEM education, and enhancing health and wellness. Applications are reviewed quarterly, and grant amounts typically exceed $1,000.

The Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation provides grants to early-stage social entrepreneurs working on scalable solutions to pressing social and environmental issues. By supporting organizations with innovative approaches and proven impact, they aim to uplift underserved communities globally. The foundation offers operational support, funding of up to $300,000 over three years, and fosters a collaborative community among its portfolio organizations. They focus on candidates demonstrating measurable impact and sustainable growth potential.

The FISA Foundation Grant supports initiatives aimed at improving the health and well-being of people with disabilities, particularly women and girls. Priorities include enhancing access to healthcare, addressing biases in the system, and preventing violence against vulnerable populations. The foundation emphasizes projects with clear outcomes and realistic evaluation plans, focusing on marginalized groups, especially those facing systemic barriers. Eligible organizations must operate within southwestern Pennsylvania and benefit women, girls, or people with disabilities.

The Hillman Foundation, established in 1951, aims to enhance the quality of life in Pittsburgh and southwestern Pennsylvania. It focuses on strategic grantmaking for economic development, health, education, human services, the arts, and the environment. The Foundation prioritizes initiatives that foster community growth, support arts and culture, and address social determinants of health. It primarily funds tax-exempt organizations serving the ten counties of southwestern Pennsylvania.

The Mary Hillman Jennings Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations in southwestern Pennsylvania, focusing on community development, health, education, and the arts. Established in 1968, the Foundation aims to improve the quality of life for underserved populations, including at-risk youth and homeless individuals. It prioritizes direct services that promote economic and social welfare, while accepting applications from tax-exempt organizations. The grant cycle may take two to three months, reflecting the Foundation's commitment to thorough review.

The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation provides grants to organizations focused on improving the lives of children in urban poverty in the U.S., India, and South Africa. They prioritize projects in education, health, and family economic stability. Grants typically do not exceed 25% of a project's budget or 10% of an organization's annual expenses. The foundation seeks to partner with organizations already making an impact, ensuring funding supports impactful social enterprises.

Quest for the Best® is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in Pennsylvania by providing project-based grants to 501(c)(3) organizations. The grant aims to support initiatives that focus on long-term sustainability, secured co-funding, and specific programs. Priorities include police and nurse training, education for underserved communities, and humanitarian efforts such as clean water access. The funder emphasizes local impact and requires matching contributions for grant requests.

The Rapid Response Fund for Community Power, launched by HealthSpark Foundation, offers quick, flexible funding to Montgomery County organizations facing urgent challenges. With a budget of approximately $50,000, grants range from $500 to $5,000, supporting community-led initiatives that enhance civic engagement and social equity. This fund aims to empower local voices and strengthen community influence over policies affecting their lives, aligning with HealthSpark's mission to foster healthy and equitable communities.

The Festus & Helen Stacy Foundation provides grants to non-profit organizations worldwide, especially those focusing on evangelism, leadership development, holistic ministries, and media outreach. Established in 1980, the foundation aims to support projects that address the needs of the marginalized and promote generous giving. Grants are typically awarded for specific initiatives in South Florida, nationally, and internationally, particularly in emerging nations. Organizations must be tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) to be eligible.

The Sun Club Sustainability Grant, offered by Green Mountain Energy, empowers U.S.-based nonprofits to implement sustainability initiatives. Established in 2002, this grant supports diverse projects, including clean transportation, renewable energy, and resource conservation. Organizations must demonstrate three years of tax-exempt status and a commitment to community impact. Awards range from $50,000 to $400,000, focusing on measurable environmental, social, and financial benefits. Join us in fostering a greener future through innovative solutions and community engagement.

The Robert H. Spitz Foundation, managed by the Scranton Area Community Foundation, is launching its Fall 2024 grant cycle for local 501(c)(3) nonprofits. Interested organizations must submit a Letter of Intent (LOI) online. The foundation supports initiatives in Lackawanna County, with upcoming funding areas including Veterans' Affairs, Animal Welfare, and Environmental Programs. The Spring 2025 cycle will follow, encouraging applications that address these critical community needs.

The Joseph Kennard Skilling Trust Grant supports social welfare agencies in Philadelphia, enhancing community welfare through targeted programs. Established in 1963 by Joseph Kennard Skilling, the trust embodies his lifelong commitment to philanthropy. The foundation prioritizes effective programs, professional management, and community needs, while favoring organizations that assist vulnerable populations. Eligible nonprofit organizations under Section 501(c)(3) are encouraged to apply, particularly those addressing issues like elder care, youth at risk, and rehabilitation of the homeless.

The Baltimore Life Community Grants Program, established by the Baltimore Life Foundation, awards grants of up to $500 to nonprofit organizations in various states, including Maryland and Virginia. This initiative aims to enhance community quality of life through projects that focus on family safety and community enhancement. Eligible applicants must be IRS-certified 501(c)(3) organizations, with priority given to those with volunteer support. This program reflects Baltimore Life's commitment to corporate citizenship and community involvement.

The CNX Foundation Grant aims to enhance the Appalachian region through strategic investments totaling $30 million. With a focus on sustainability and community development, the grant addresses pressing socio-economic challenges such as food insecurity, health and wellness for children, and technological access. By fostering local initiatives, CNX Foundation aspires to create measurable impacts that uplift communities and promote long-term growth, embodying their commitment to environmental, social, and governance principles.

The Kenneth A. Scott Charitable Trust Grants focus on enhancing the quality of life for companion animals and native wildlife. This private foundation supports innovative projects that go beyond basic care, ensuring the well-being of homeless and abused animals. Eligible organizations must have a 501(c)(3) status and be located in specific states, including Ohio and parts of Indiana and Michigan. The Trust emphasizes humane treatment and sustainable funding for animal welfare initiatives.

The Kenneth A. Scott Charitable Trust offers grants aimed at enhancing the lives of animals in the Ohio/Great Lakes region. It prioritizes projects that foster animal adoption, behavior training, and humane education. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) certified and demonstrate a commitment to animal welfare. The Trust seeks innovative, collaborative initiatives that significantly improve the well-being of animals, particularly in underserved communities, ensuring a high quality of life for both individual animals and larger populations.

The William G. McGowan Charitable Fund provides grants focusing on Education, Human Services, and Healthcare initiatives. The fund prioritizes programs with measurable outcomes that aim to alleviate poverty and suffering. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits and align with the fund's mission to create sustainable change. Applications are accepted by invitation only in specific regions, with a rolling deadline. The fund seeks collaborative efforts to maximize impact across its program areas.

Our Mission Statement

Scranton Area Community Foundation is on a mission to enhance the quality of life for all people in Northeastern Pennsylvania through the development of organized philanthropy. A public 501c3 community foundation, the Scranton Area Community Foundation serves as a steward, a grantmaker, a charitable resource, and a catalyst for change.

As a steward and grantmaker, we manage more than 200 charitable funds established by philanthropic individuals in our community and have granted more than $18 million to assist the educational, human service, environmental, civic, and arts and cultural organizations in Northeastern Pennsylvania. We also manage assets of more than $31 million through two private foundations, the Northeastern Pennsylvania Health Care Foundation and the Robert H. Spitz Foundation.

As a catalyst for change, we lead numerous initiatives, including Women in Philanthropy, which empowers and transforms the lives of women and girls throughout the region; NEPA Moves, which brings together a council of community leaders who are focused on solving the transportation challenges across the region; the Center for Community Leadership and Nonprofit Excellence, which serves the capacity building needs of the nonprofit community through seminars and training programs facilitated by highly-skilled, nationally-recognized professionals; and the NEPA Animal Welfare Collaborative, which brings together animal shelters, rescues, advocates, and sanctuaries interested in advancing various causes in animal welfare.

Scranton Area Community Foundation proudly celebrated 65 years of serving the community in 2019.

Tomorrow's Leaders Today (TLT) Grant Cycle

Tomorrow’s Leaders Today (TLT) is a youth leadership program of Leadership Lackawanna that provides high school juniors with the opportunity to meet with community leaders and decision-makers. In addition to leadership development, the students are also required to complete a philanthropy curriculum conducted by the Scranton Area Community Foundation. TLT seeks to help participants realize what they can do to make a difference in their community as young philanthropists and to further develop their leadership skills.

The Scranton Area Community Foundation is proud to partner with Leadership Lackawanna in introducing the concept of philanthropy and grantmaking to our region’s youth. The Scranton Area Community Foundation allocates funding for the TLT class to grant. Priority areas are chosen by the TLT students.

Grants up to $5,000 are available to charitable organizations whose programming addresses:

• Animal shelter expansion:
  • Examples of potential grants for this area include, but are not limited to
    • Projects that purchase equipment and/or supplies (i.e. crates, food, medicine) to meet demand of Animal Welfare facilities
    • Projects that build or renovate facilities to meet demand of Animal Welfare organizations
• Programs for those experiencing homelessness:
  • Examples of potential grants for this area include, but are not limited to:
    • Projects providing housing, food, or transportation for people experiencing homelessness
    • Projects providing access to education or workforce training for people experiencing homelessness
• Behavioral Health – Programming for Children, Adolescents, and Young Adults:
  • Examples of potential grants for this area include, but are not limited to:
    • Projects providing therapeutic and medical assistance to individuals 25 years of age and younger
    • Mentorship programs specifically serving individuals 25 years of age and younger with mental health issues

The Walter J. Miller Trust Grant provides financial support to numerous charitable organizations in Pennsylvania. Established to honor the legacy of Mr. Miller and his sisters, the Trust emphasizes funding for education, health services, arts, and social welfare. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) compliant, with a focus on projects that address community needs not met by others. The Trust aims to ensure lasting impact through its generous contributions, fostering community development and support.

The Pittsburgh Foundation Basic Needs Grants: Housing aims to address housing insecurity in Allegheny County, particularly among low-income renters. Established in 1945, the Foundation supports initiatives that enhance stability for vulnerable populations, focusing on eviction prevention and transitional housing services. With grants ranging from $10,000 to $150,000, the Foundation prioritizes organizations that serve communities disproportionately affected by poverty and social injustices, ensuring equitable access to essential resources and support.

The Ralph J. Torraco Food Bank/Shelter Fund Grant, offered by the UNICO Foundation Inc., aims to combat hunger and provide shelter for the homeless and indigent. Eligible applicants include registered non-profit food pantries, soup kitchens, and shelters in 13 U.S. states. The grant focuses on direct services, ensuring that all funds are used for food and shelter, not for operating expenses, thereby promoting effective community support for vulnerable populations.

The Caroline J. S. Sanders Trust 1 Grant, established in 1968, aims to support charitable causes with a focus on education, social welfare, and training for the handicapped. Grants typically range from $2,000 to $15,000, with a preference for organizations based in Pennsylvania. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations. The trust does not fund endowments, general operating expenses, or political support, making it a valuable resource for community-focused initiatives.

The Caroline J. S. Sanders Trust 2 Grant provides funding primarily to 501(c)(3) organizations in Pennsylvania, focusing on education, health services, and social welfare programs. Grants typically range from $3,000 to $7,000, with around 30 awards given annually. The trust prioritizes requests from educational institutions and agencies assisting vulnerable populations, including the elderly and homeless. While there are no strict geographic limitations, support is mainly directed towards organizations based in Pennsylvania.

The Genuardi Family Foundation's Core Grant Program funds organizations providing direct services in food access, homelessness prevention, and job training in Southeastern Pennsylvania. Grants range from $10,000 to $25,000 annually, supporting impactful programs that demonstrate strong community ties and operational effectiveness. Eligible applicants must hold 501(c)(3) status and focus primarily on the specified counties, ensuring that their initiatives align with the Foundation's priorities.

The Mutual of America Foundation Community Partnership Award honors exemplary nonprofit organizations in the U.S. that foster collaborative partnerships across sectors. Annually, a national competition showcases numerous organizations demonstrating impactful community partnerships. Six organizations receive recognition, including the Thomas J. Moran Award, which offers $100,000, and the Frances R. Hesselbein Award, granting $75,000. Since 1996, the award has acknowledged 262 partnerships, emphasizing Mutual of America's commitment to societal improvement through collaboration.

The Greater Harrisburg Foundation Upstream Grant aims to foster community improvement by funding innovative projects that address systemic issues at their source. This grant supports nonprofit organizations in Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Lebanon, and Perry Counties, allowing them to implement creative solutions in areas such as education, health, and environmental stewardship. By focusing on upstream interventions, the foundation encourages a proactive approach to social change, ultimately enhancing community resilience and well-being.

The TFEC Community Impact Grants, including the Benjamin Franklin Trust Fund, support nonprofits in South Central Pennsylvania. Emphasizing community sustainability, these grants address diverse local needs such as education, health, and housing stability. Priority is given to projects aiding Mifflin and Juniata counties, with a focus on measurable impact and lasting outcomes. Eligible organizations must be registered nonprofits, and funding decisions depend on the number of qualified applicants and available resources.