Best Grants for Children in Texas

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 Russell Foundation provides grants aimed at enhancing the development of children and youth into confident and responsible individuals. With a focus on education, character building, health, and intervention, the foundation seeks to support programs that address the holistic needs of young people. Their mission emphasizes fostering a positive environment that promotes growth and development, ensuring that children and youth can achieve their fullest potential, regardless of their socio-economic background.

The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo offers grants to Texas-based 501(c)(3) charities and accredited educational institutions. These grants support programs that benefit youth, education, agricultural development, and the preservation of cultural heritage. With over $89 million awarded to more than 100 organizations, the program emphasizes alignment with its mission pillars. Eligible entities include faith-based organizations for non-sectarian projects, while ineligible projects range from new initiatives under three years to capital projects and fundraising events.

The Martha Sue Parr Trust Grant supports charitable, nonprofit organizations defined by section 501(c)3 of the IRS tax code, focusing on programs that benefit young people, religious organizations, and hospitals in Texas. Applications are restricted to nonprofit entities, as individuals are not eligible to submit. For more information, please refer to the foundation finder provided by JPMorgan. This grant aims to foster community support and development through targeted funding.

The Trull Foundation offers local sponsorship grants to organizations seeking funding for events under $1,500, prioritizing children in rural areas, those affected by substance abuse, and projects in the coastal Texas environment. Interested applicants should submit requests at least one month prior to their events. The foundation values cooperation with other organizations and may provide guidance on project assistance, ensuring resources are effectively utilized for community benefit.

The Dunkin’ Prom Grant, provided by the Joy in Childhood Foundation, aims to bring joy to teenage patients unable to attend their own prom due to illness. By funding hospitals to host prom-like events, the program ensures these patients experience this significant milestone. Grants typically range from $20,000 to $50,000, supporting the creation of memorable events with themes, food, entertainment, and formal wear for the teens, making a positive impact in their lives.

The Connecting Joy Grant, provided by the Joy in Childhood Foundation, aims to enhance the hospital experience for children battling illness through engaging gaming programs. This initiative supports children's hospitals and nonprofits by funding equipment, staffing, and connectivity, ensuring children can enjoy gaming at their bedside. With grants ranging from $25,000 to $150,000, the program focuses on offering joy and distraction, helping young patients cope with their hospital stays while facilitating connections with peers.

The W. L. and Louise E. Seymour Foundation Grant provides financial support for initiatives benefiting handicapped and homeless children, as well as charitable organizations for the elderly in Texas. This grant aims to enhance the quality of life for vulnerable populations by funding essential services and resources. Organizations interested in applying should ensure their missions align with the foundation's focus areas to maximize their chances of receiving funding.

The purpose of this announcement is to solicit applications for projects that prevent violence in and around school; and to improve the juvenile justice system by providing mental health services, truancy prevention, diversion services and intervention through community-based and school programs.

Eligible Activities include: Mental Health Services, Education programs or supportive services, Community Programs and Services, Youth Diversion Services and Juvenile Case Managers. 

Texas Education Agency

The Texas Education Agency is the state agency that oversees primary and secondary public education. It is headed by the commissioner of education. The Texas Education Agency improves outcomes for all public school students in the state by providing leadership, guidance, and support to school systems.

Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA)

The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) is a federal K–12 education law. ESSA was signed into law in 2015, replacing No Child Left Behind, and reauthorizing the original Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), which was signed into law in 1965 by President Lyndon Baines Johnson.

ESSA requires every state to measure performance in reading, math, and science. Every school must inform parents about their standards and their results. 

ESSA requires every state to provide parents important information on test performance in reading, math, and science. The report cards must also provide data on graduation rates, suspensions, absenteeism, teacher qualifications, and many other areas. Texas provides maximum transparency for parents and publicly shares performance information on TXschools.gov and in data reports on the Performance Reporting pages.

Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) Consolidated Federal Grant

The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) Consolidated Federal Grant includes: 1) Title I, Part A Grants; 2) Title I, Part C Grants; 3) Title I, Part D, Subpart 1 Grants; 4) Title I, Part D, Subpart 2 Grants; 5) Title II, Part A Grants; 6) Title III, Part A ELA Grants; 7) Title III, Part A Immigrant Grants; and 8) Title IV, Part A, Subpart 1 Grants.

Title I, Part D, Subpart 1 

Program Purpose, Goals, and Objectives

[ESSA, Section 1401(a)]

The purpose of Title I, Part D, Subpart 1 is to do the following:

• Improve educational services for children and youth in local and state institutions for neglected or delinquent children and youth so that such children and youth have the opportunity to meet the same challenging state academic content standards and student academic achievement standards that all children are expected to meet;
• Provide such children and youth with the services needed to make a successful transition from institutionalization to further schooling or employment; and
• Prevent at-risk youth from dropping out of school and provide dropouts and children and youth returning from jails or institutions for neglected or delinquent children and youth with a support system to ensure their continued education and the involvement of their families and communities.

The Texas Juvenile Justice Department (TJJD) and the Windham School District are the eligible state agencies in Texas.

About Us

Texas Health and Human Services, also known as the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC), helps more than 7.5 million Texans every month. The agency supports the needs of mothers, children and families through programs such as Medicaid, CHIP, SNAP, women’s health and behavioral health services.

HHSC provides long-term services and supports for seniors and people with disabilities, and operates state supported living centers for residents with intellectual and developmental disabilities and state psychiatric hospitals. HHSC also regulates health care providers, professions and facilities to protect the health and safety of Texans.

Preparation for Adult Living (PAL) Transition and Financial Support Services

Executive Summary

The State of Texas, by and through the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) on behalf of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) Child Protective Services (CPS) Program seeks Applicants to provide Preparation for Adult Living (PAL) Transition and Financial Support Services in an effective and efficient manner in DFPS Regions 1 to 5 and Regions 7 to 11 ( Refer Section 2.4, DFPS Regions) to DFPS Youth and Young Adults to help them successfully transition to adulthood.

The Carl C. Anderson Sr. & Marie Jo Anderson Foundation Grant supports organizations that assist low-income and vulnerable populations in New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas. The foundation emphasizes essential needs for children and youth, services for older adults, and enhancements for individuals with disabilities. They prioritize flexible, collaborative funding relationships and aim to improve community health and wellbeing. Please refer to their website for funding examples and additional guidelines.

The Edith Lois Wilson 4-H Scholarship is designed for graduating high school seniors from District One of the Texas Agricultural Extension Service who plan to attend college in fields such as Human Science, Home Economics, or Family and Consumer Science. Eligible applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0, be in the top 25% of their class, and be active 4-H members. This scholarship supports students in achieving their educational goals while contributing to their communities.

The TX AmeriCorps Planning Grant, managed by OneStar, aims to address Texas's social challenges through national service. Engaging over 3,200 AmeriCorps members across 33 organizations, it focuses on disaster services, economic opportunity, education, environmental stewardship, healthy futures, and support for veterans. This initiative enhances community resilience, improves lives, and fosters civic engagement by directing resources effectively to those in need, contributing to a stronger, more interconnected Texas.

Simmons First Foundation: Make a Difference Grant

Amount:

• $2,500 up to $50,000

For the upcoming grant cycle, funding will be limited to programs focused on:Special Education:  K-12 Youth with disabilities, including physical disabilities, developmental and cognitive disabilities, and sensory impairments.   (examples including):

• Inclusive theater and performing arts programs
• Adapted, hands-on STEM learning
• Accessible coding, robotics, and maker-space activities
• Science-based learning adapted for diverse abilities
• Assistive technology and adaptive learning tools
• Adaptive physical education and recreation programs

Substance Abuse and Violence Prevention:  K-12 Youth (examples including):

• Evidence-based prevention programs targeting alcohol, opioids, vaping, and other substance use
• Skill-building programs that focus on refusal skills, decision making, coping strategies, and peer pressure resistanc
• Early intervention programs for at-risk youth
• Recovery support services for youth in early recovery (including peer support groups, mentoring, and relapse prevention planning)
• Youth-focused programs that teach emotional regulation, anger management, and non-violent communication
• Intervention programs for youth exposed to or at risk of violence
• Peer mediation and restorative justice programs that reduce disciplinary incidents and promote accountability

Simmons First Foundation: Mini Grant

Amount:

• $1,000 up to $2,500 
•  Projects must pertain to youth (K-12) in the fields of education or health care. Mini Grants are for immediate (long-term) needs for programs and entities must be a 501c3 organization.

Hendrick Health Community Grants and Event Sponsorships provide funding opportunities for agencies and organizations aligned with Hendrick Health’s community initiatives. The program aims to empower residents to live healthier lives, enhance youth development, educate the community, strengthen the economy, and enrich cultural experiences in West Texas. With a commitment to local service and health, Hendrick Health continues its legacy of supporting holistic well-being and community engagement.

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.

Preparation for Adult Living (TX)

The State of Texas, by and through the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) on behalf of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) Child Protective Services (CPS) Program seeks Applicants to provide Preparation for Adult Living (PAL) Life Skills Training and Assessment Services in an effective and efficient manner in DFPS Regions 7-11 to DFPS Youth and Young Adults to help them successfully transition to adulthood

Estimated Total Available Funding :

• $3,480,950.00 

Estimated max award

• $696,190.00

Family Support Services (TX)

The purpose of the CYD program is to assist communities in alleviating conditions in the family and community that lead to juvenile crime. The CYD program is a community based program that provides services to youth and their families by promoting positive experiences, relationships, and environments. Through the promotion and implementation of PYD, youth are engaged in productive and constructive environments that address youth development, build positive and healthy relationships with peers and adults, and provide opportunities for engagement in school and community. The CYD program aims to improve the development and well-being of youth, promote healthy and safe families and communities, increase protective factors for youth, reduce involvement with the criminal justice system, reduce the likelihood of child abuse and neglect, and promote workforce readiness.

The CYD program is entirely voluntary and free-of-charge to enrolled Participants. 

HHSC estimates the total amount of funding for the CYD grant program is $9,957,043.00 per State fiscal year. Annual awards per individual Grant Agreement typically range between $400,000.00 and $1,000,000.00. HHSC estimates the value of the RFA based on the stated annual amount multiplied by five (5) years, plus an additional 25% to allow for increases in funding during the Project Period.

Applicants are strongly cautioned to only apply for the amount of grant funding they can responsibly expend during the Project Period to avoid lapsed funding at the end of the Grant Term. Successful Applications may not be funded to the full extent of Applicants’ Requested Budgets in order to ensure grant funds are available for the broadest possible array of communities and programs.

The AdvoCare Foundation, established in 1993, aims to promote health and wellness for children through its grant program. Focused on year-round initiatives, the foundation supports local communities where AdvoCare distributors operate. Grants typically last one year with an average funding of $25,000, although multi-year support may be available. The foundation prioritizes programs that foster positive health changes and encourages collaborative efforts with previous grantees.

The Dallas Stars Foundation Community Grant Program aims to provide financial support to local non-profits, enhancing awareness of their charitable missions through the 50/50 Raffle at Dallas Stars games. Selected organizations will benefit from proceeds during a benefit game in the 2025-2026 season, with an average donation of $10,000. Non-profits focusing on youth hockey, community engagement, and children's health are encouraged to apply, while those funded in the previous season are ineligible.

The Long Foundation Grant aims to support Texas Hispanic youths by addressing the high school dropout rate and enhancing their economic and social potential. Through annual grants to nonprofits and educational institutions, the foundation seeks programs that promote caring adult relationships, safe spaces, health, and marketable skills. With a focus on the Austin Metropolitan area, at least 75% of beneficiaries must be Hispanic, ensuring inclusivity while prioritizing this demographic's needs.

The Fichtenbaum Charitable Trust, established in 2017, supports Texas charitable organizations in areas such as medical research for serious conditions, education for children with disabilities, and promoting fine arts. Grants typically range from $10,000 to $100,000, with an average of $35,000. The Trust prioritizes unique and necessary proposals that meet local community needs and do not duplicate existing services, particularly focusing on projects in Dallas County and surrounding areas.

The Marcia and Otto Koehler Foundation Grant supports 501(c)(3) public charities focused on medical research, arts promotion, and youth development in San Antonio. Eligible organizations must skip one grant cycle before reapplying. The foundation prioritizes projects that enhance the physical, mental, and moral well-being of local youth. Notably, it does not fund individuals or organizations involved in political lobbying. This grant offers a vital opportunity for community support in various essential sectors.

The Behmann Brothers Foundation, established in October 1979, focuses on supporting agricultural research, education, youth groups, healthcare, and service organizations. Grants are available for non-profit organizations recognized as public charities by the IRS, primarily in Texas counties including Nueces and Aransas. However, the Foundation does not fund individuals, governmental entities, or political activities, ensuring support is directed towards community enhancement and welfare.

The Chamiza Foundation Grant supports the preservation and revitalization of Pueblo culture through targeted grantmaking. For over 33 years, the foundation has enabled positive change in Pueblo communities by prioritizing language preservation, sustainable agriculture, traditional arts, and youth leadership. With an emphasis on collaboration and community involvement, the foundation awards grants averaging between $3,000 and $15,000 to projects that foster cultural continuity and innovation.