Best St. Lawrence County Grants for Nonprofits in New York

The Daniel J. Briggs Fund for Integrity Grant Program, managed by the Northern New York Community Foundation, offers grants up to $2,500 to support nonprofit programs enhancing community life in Jefferson, Lewis, and St. Lawrence counties. Focused on bullying prevention and character education, the fund also promotes professional development for educators and staff in local school districts, ensuring a positive impact on the region's youth.

The Hearst Foundation's Social Service Grant focuses on tackling chronic poverty by funding direct-service organizations that implement effective solutions for economic independence and family strengthening. With a mission to support diverse nonprofits in the U.S., the Foundation allocates approximately 15% of its total funding to social services, prioritizing scalable programs that serve significant populations. The minimum grant size is $100,000, and special consideration is given to organizations addressing affordable housing, domestic violence, and youth development.

Northern New York Community Foundation

Since 1929, the Northern New York Community Foundation has invested in improving and enriching the quality of life for all in communities across Jefferson, Lewis and St. Lawrence counties.

Through partnerships with businesses and organizations, charitable foundations, and generous families and individual donors, the Community Foundation awards grants and scholarships from an endowment and collection of funds that benefit the region. Its commitment to donors helps individuals achieve their charitable objectives now and for generations to come by preserving and honoring legacies of community philanthropy while inspiring others.

Nonprofit Capacity Building Initiative

The Nonprofit Capacity Building Initiative is a Northern New York Community Foundation effort to help strengthen the effectiveness of local nonprofit organizations. Grants up to $5,000 may be awarded to nonprofits seeking outside expertise and resources to develop and grow their internal structure, practices and operations. 

Roche Corporate Donations and Philanthropy (CDP) focuses on impactful projects that foster sustainable development, engage employees, and leverage Roche's expertise. Their philanthropic efforts prioritize humanitarian, educational, environmental, and cultural initiatives, aiming to build stronger communities and support innovative projects. Eligibility is limited to local organizations, while ineligible projects include those with political or religious ties. The foundation strives to create a positive societal impact through collaboration and strategic partnerships.

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 Sidney Stern Memorial Trust Grant supports charitable, scientific, medical, and educational organizations that are 501(c)(3) certified. This private funder emphasizes impactful service to diverse populations without discrimination. Grants must be utilized within the United States and cannot be awarded to individuals, political candidates, or lobbying efforts. The Trust is dedicated to enhancing the general welfare through soundly-managed initiatives that contribute significantly to community needs.

Adirondack Community Foundation

For three decades, Adirondack Community Foundation has been a steady hand, helping our region grow from within.

Our Mission: Connecting people, ideas, and resources to improve lives and expand opportunities throughout the Adirondack region.

Small Grants for Small Food Pantries

Small Grants for Small Food Pantries at Adirondack Community Foundation makes grants available to food pantries to help with infrastructure and long-term improvements that allow them to provide more fresh food options and better support volunteers. One-time grants of up to $1,500 per pantry may be used to upgrade equipment or technology, provide volunteer training, or improve signage and displays to help people choose better options.

The Special and Urgent Needs Fund Grant by the Adirondack Foundation provides critical financial support to local communities and nonprofits facing unexpected challenges. This fund is designed to address immediate needs such as emergency repairs, unbudgeted resources, and recovery efforts following disasters. Eligible organizations must be located in the Adirondack region of New York and meet specific criteria, ensuring assistance is directed to those most in need during times of crisis.

Wells Fargo Community Giving supports nonprofit organizations focusing on financial health, housing affordability, small business growth, and sustainability. The grant cycle runs from February to October, inviting organizations with 501(c)(3) status or equivalent to apply. Funding is prioritized for programs addressing critical community needs, while limited support is available for local initiatives like disaster relief and arts. Organizations must demonstrate fiscal stability and potential impact to be considered for funding.

The CAR-FRESHNER Corporation Charitable Fund Grant, established in partnership with the Northern New York Community Foundation, aims to support community programs focused on educational initiatives. Nonprofit organizations can apply once per year for grants ranging from $5,000 to $20,000. Areas of focus include libraries, child care, vocational training, and other projects enhancing educational opportunities in Jefferson, Lewis, and St. Lawrence Counties. The fund reflects CAR-FRESHNER's commitment to its community and quality service.

The Northern New York Community Foundation offers grants to support diverse programs addressing regional needs, including human services, health, arts, education, and environmental conservation. Eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations in Jefferson, Lewis, and St. Lawrence counties can apply. The Foundation evaluates proposals quarterly, with requests of $5,000 or less potentially approved at the committee level, while larger requests require Board review. Applicants will receive notification of award decisions after Board meetings.

The Clifton-Fine Community Fund, managed by the Northern New York Community Foundation, provides grants up to $6,000 to nonprofit and eligible public organizations. It aims to enhance the quality of life in Jefferson, Lewis, and St. Lawrence counties, serving communities such as Clifton, Cranberry Lake, and Star Lake. The fund prioritizes programs and projects that positively impact the region, ensuring support for local initiatives and organizations dedicated to community improvement.

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 Rock Charitable Fund Grant, managed by the Northern New York Community Foundation, provides up to $125,000 to support the maintenance and preservation of historically significant churches and cemeteries. It aims to assist Veterans in St. Lawrence County with their medical and recreational needs. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations in Jefferson, Lewis, and St. Lawrence counties, emphasizing community development and service.

The J.W. Couch Foundation Grant focuses on supporting Wildlife Conservation nonprofit organizations that align with their mission of community betterment and environmental protection. The foundation seeks partnerships with organizations that promote animal wellbeing, early childhood education, teacher support, and outdoor activities. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)3 nonprofits or for-profit entities aligned with their charitable programs. This grant emphasizes collaboration and community engagement to create lasting impacts.

The LEAD Impact Grant Program, established by the Northern New York Community Foundation, supports nonprofit organizations in Jefferson, Lewis, and St. Lawrence counties. This initiative prioritizes projects addressing basic human needs, mental health and wellness, and workforce development. The program aims to foster positive change and improve the quality of life for residents in these communities. Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations are encouraged to apply for funding opportunities that align with these community-focused objectives.

The Robinson Foundation Grant, established in 2016, aims to alleviate hardships faced by individuals and communities, demonstrating God's love through charitable contributions. As a family-operated foundation, it focuses on creating meaningful, long-term impacts in various areas including animal welfare, education, and disaster relief. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501(c)(3) public charities. The foundation prioritizes fiscally responsible projects with the potential for tangible results, while not supporting capital projects.

The TJX Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations located within 15 miles of a TJX store that align with their community mission. Eligible areas include basic needs, education for at-risk youth, workforce training, and safety from domestic violence. Organizations must be a registered 501(c)(3) for at least 12 months and have a nondiscrimination policy. Applications are invited through a Letter of Inquiry, with funding decisions based on community impact.

The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation offers grants to support diverse initiatives, including museums, educational programs, and environmental activities. Aiming to make a significant impact with modest funding, the Foundation targets IRS-qualified non-profits in the U.S. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $20,000, fostering community development and enhancement. Organizations focused on youth, seniors, and individuals with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply, as the Foundation seeks to empower those in need.

The Youth Philanthropy Council Grant Program, established by the Northern New York Community Foundation, empowers youth by engaging them in philanthropy and community development. With a funding capability of up to $25,000, it supports projects that enhance community life across Jefferson, Lewis, and St. Lawrence Counties. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations or those partnering with such sponsors. This initiative fosters critical thinking and real-world skills among student delegates from various high schools.

Ameriprise Community Grants focus on supporting nonprofits that enhance community vitality and meet basic needs. With over 120 years of commitment to philanthropy, Ameriprise Financial engages employees in volunteerism and grantmaking. Key giving areas include hunger relief, housing stability, and community development. Priority is given to organizations with active volunteer engagement from Ameriprise advisors and employees, creating a meaningful impact on financial independence and community resilience.

The Dr. Scholl Foundation offers grants annually to IRS 501(c)(3) organizations, primarily focusing on U.S. applicants. The foundation supports projects in education, social services, healthcare, civic and cultural initiatives, and environmental efforts. While the grant cycle runs from October 1 to March 1, it encourages innovative solutions to global challenges. Only one application per organization is accepted each year, and funding is limited to one year. Unqualified organizations, including political entities, are ineligible.

The Generous Acts Grant Program, backed by the Adirondack Foundation, supports nonprofits and community organizations in the Adirondack Region. Since 2014, it has allocated over $1 million to initiatives addressing basic needs, educational pathways, and economic vitality. Grants range from $2,500 to $30,000, focusing on underserved populations and promoting collaboration for a more inclusive future. Applicants are encouraged to align their proposals with the program's mission to tackle racial and economic disparities.

The Hansen Family Foundation Grant seeks to empower organizations that uphold the American values of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Focused on diverse causes like children, education, animals, environmental conservation, humanitarian efforts, and arts, the foundation is committed to supporting initiatives that create positive change. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits, while political campaigns and organizations with high budgets or overheads are ineligible. This grant fosters impactful contributions to society.

New York State Office of Mental Health

The New York State Office of Mental Health (OMH) oversees a large multi-faceted mental health system serving nearly 800,000 individuals each year. This includes operating 23 psychiatric centers and overseeing the Nathan S. Kline Institute and New York Psychiatric Institute. OMH regulates and certifies more than 6,500 programs operated by local governments and nonprofit agencies.

Mission

Our mission is to promote the mental health of all New Yorkers, with a particular focus on providing hope and recovery for adults with serious mental illness and children with serious emotional disturbances.

Community Based Diversion Programs

The Office of Mental Health announces funds for the development or enhancement of diversion programs. Programs should be rooted in evidence-based programming or emerging promising practice.

The goal of diversion programs is to reduce the risk of criminal justice involvement for adults with behavioral health needs.

Applicants must already be administering services in the following counties:

• Cayuga
• Essex
• Franklin
• Montgomery
• Madison
• Oneida
• St. Lawrence
• Warren/Washington

Target Population

The target population to be served by the proposed diversion program model is individuals at least 18 years of age with complex and/or chronic behavioral health issues and who are involved with the criminal justice system at one or more intercepts on the Sequential Intercept Model. 

The True Inspiration Awards, established by Chick-fil-A in 2015, recognizes nonprofit organizations that significantly impact their communities. In 2025, the program will distribute $6 million in grants, ranging from $30,000 to $350,000, to sixteen selected organizations. Categories include Caring for People, Caring through Food, Community, and Caring for our Planet, with a focus on educational initiatives, food security, housing services, and environmental stewardship, honoring the legacy of founder S. Truett Cathy.

The Dr. U.R. Plante Medical Scholarship, established by the Adirondack Foundation, honors the legacy of Dr. U.R. Plante, a dedicated physician in rural New York. This scholarship aims to support students from the Adirondack region pursuing medical education, with amounts up to $10,000. Eligible applicants must be accepted into an accredited medical school and demonstrate a commitment to serving their community post-graduation. This initiative not only fosters education but also encourages the return of healthcare professionals to underserved areas.