Best Grants for Nonprofit Human Services in Texas

The Harold Simmons Foundation, established in 1988 in Dallas, Texas, aims to enhance community quality of life through strategic investments. The Foundation focuses on education, healthcare, civic improvement, and arts, offering grants between $5,000 to $20,000 for first-time applicants. Proposals addressing current community needs are welcomed year-round, with a preference for collaborative efforts among nonprofits. In 2024, the Foundation distributed approximately $7.3 million to support impactful projects.

The Foundation for Southeast Texas Grant supports civic and social projects focusing on arts, education, health, and community development. Eligible organizations are 501(c)(3) nonprofits or government entities operating for over a year in Hardin, Jefferson, or Orange Counties. Grants are awarded annually based on available funds, with a focus on emerging community needs. Applicants must adhere to strict guidelines, and funds must be used exclusively for the approved project.

The Gulf Coast Medical Foundation Grant supports non-profit organizations in Wharton, Fort Bend, and Matagorda Counties, focusing on health, education, and human services. Grants can reach up to $40,000 annually, with priority given to health-related initiatives. Eligible organizations include 501(c)3 entities, while individual grants are not permitted. The foundation aims to enhance the quality of life in the community through targeted projects, ensuring that funding is directed towards impactful and identifiable purposes.

The PNC Foundation aims to enhance the lives of individuals in local communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. Their focus includes promoting educational opportunities, particularly for early childhood education, and supporting economic development initiatives. Grants are available for organizations that benefit low- to moderate-income families and enhance community growth. The foundation prioritizes programs that foster sustainability and diversity, ensuring a lasting impact on the communities they serve.

The Henry Foundation, established in 2006, aims to enhance the quality of life for Midland, Texas residents through charitable contributions. It focuses on supporting educational institutions, social services, and community projects that bring lasting benefits. The Foundation encourages collaborative efforts with other non-profits and emphasizes projects that address root causes of community issues. Grants are available for both capital and operating projects, favoring initiatives with a direct connection to Midland.

The James B. Linsmayer Foundation Grant supports programs in arts, culture, education, health, and human services primarily within the Twin Cities of Minnesota. Established in memory of James B. Linsmayer, the foundation aims to be a strategic partner in these vital areas. Eligible grantees include public charities recognized under IRC guidelines, with no geographic limitations but a preference for local organizations. While start-ups may be considered, funding for organizational expenses is not permitted.

The Gilbert and Thyra Plass Charitable Trust aims to enhance the quality of life for residents in Brazos County, Texas, by supporting diverse charitable initiatives. Established through the legacy of Dr. Gilbert and Dr. Thyra Plass, the trust focuses on areas such as arts, education, environment, health, human services, and religion. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501(c)(3) entities and maintain a local office, ensuring their initiatives directly benefit the community.

The Nina Astin Winkler Charitable Trust, established in 1966, aims to support various charitable causes, primarily in Bryan, Texas. With a focus on arts, education, health, and human services, the trust provides funding for organizations that qualify as 501(c)(3) exempt entities. While there are no geographic restrictions, preference is given to local initiatives. Notably, the foundation does not fund endowments, ensuring that resources are directed towards immediate community needs and impactful projects.

The PACCAR Foundation Grant supports organizations in communities with a significant PACCAR presence, such as factories and offices. Established in 1951, it primarily funds capital projects for social services, education, and cultural affairs. Recipients often include United Way and local universities. The foundation does not support fundraising events or individual scholarships, ensuring that funds are directed towards impactful community initiatives. Proposals must align with the foundation's mission to enhance community welfare.

The Lubrizol Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations that align with community investment priorities and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, focusing on quality education, health, and sustainable communities. Established in 1952, the foundation emphasizes support for initiatives in Cleveland, Ohio, and Houston, Texas. Grant applications are evaluated based on alignment with Lubrizol's investment pillars, with a commitment to fostering social impact and community well-being through financial support.

The Bruce J. Heim Foundation Grant supports organizations that empower young individuals with exceptional potential in academics and the arts. Established in 1986, this private foundation aims to provide financial assistance that fosters skill enhancement and personal growth. The Board evaluates grant requests monthly, assessing the viability and significance of each organization’s project. The Foundation's goal is to inspire recipients to realize their potential and contribute to philanthropic efforts, echoing the support they received.

The W. R. Grace Foundation Grant supports non-profit organizations with 501(c)(3) status in the U.S. that focus on STEM education and basic needs like food and healthcare. Since its inception in 1961, the Foundation has contributed financial and volunteer resources to enhance community wellbeing, particularly in areas where Grace employees reside. They also match employee donations to accredited educational institutions, promoting civic engagement and support for local charities.

The PositiveNRG Grant Program, led by NRG Energy, focuses on investing in communities through choice and education, community engagement, resilience, sustainability, and well-being. The program is open to non-profit organizations and governmental entities that can demonstrate a meaningful impact. Preference is given to initiatives that foster community involvement and inclusiveness. However, sponsorships for religious or political activities are generally not supported. This program aims to empower communities through innovative energy solutions.

The Employees Community Fund (ECF) of The Boeing Company empowers employees to make a significant impact through collective fundraising, supporting nonprofit organizations in their communities for over 60 years. The Houston Chapter focuses on delivering essential health and human services to diverse groups, ensuring equitable support regardless of gender, race, or background. With employee-led grantmaking initiatives, the ECF fosters community engagement and enhances local welfare, reflecting its commitment to corporate social responsibility.

The Richard S. Reynolds Foundation, established in 1955 in Richmond, Virginia, supports diverse community initiatives in education, healthcare, the arts, and the environment. With over $71 million granted to date, it aims to strengthen communities and foster future generations. The foundation prioritizes requests from IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) organizations while typically avoiding contributions to annual operational costs. Its commitment to impactful projects ensures a lasting positive influence both locally and globally.

The Oklahoma City Community Foundation administers the Kirschner Trusts, established to honor Phil and Roberta Kirschner's philanthropic legacy. These trusts focus on supporting young individuals with disabilities, Muskogee nonprofits, and Jewish causes. Since their transfer to the foundation in 2013, the trusts have continued to provide vital grants to organizations that align with the Kirschners’ values, ensuring their charitable impact persists in the community.

The Kettering Family Foundation, established in 1956, supports diverse charitable activities across various sectors, including arts, education, health, and human services. Applicants must have a valid 501(c)(3) status and discuss proposals with foundation staff before applying. Only one application is allowed per year, and specific exclusions apply, such as for religious purposes and individual grants. The foundation emphasizes meaningful community impact, making it a vital resource for eligible organizations.

The Dorsey & Whitney Foundation Grant supports charitable initiatives in communities where Dorsey attorneys reside. Established in 1982, it focuses on organizations that provide legal services to the disadvantaged and engages attorneys in volunteer roles. Each year, around 200 direct grants are awarded across North America, alongside additional support for numerous other organizations through a matching program. This commitment highlights the foundation's dedication to cultural, civic, educational, and social welfare.

SC Johnson Grants aim to enhance community welfare through charitable contributions, focusing on health, sustainability, and opportunity. Since 1937, the company has committed five percent of its pretax profits to support registered charities and nonprofit organizations, especially in areas where it operates. The grant program prioritizes initiatives addressing healthcare access, environmental conservation, and educational equity, ensuring that efforts align with the values of community service and corporate responsibility.

The ONEOK Foundation Community Investments Grants support organizations that enhance community well-being through arts, education, health, and environmental initiatives. With a focus on partnerships in the regions where ONEOK operates, the foundation encourages proposals that address specific community needs, particularly those promoting self-sufficiency. Grants up to $5,000 can be submitted any time, while larger requests are reviewed quarterly. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations that directly benefit their local communities.

The Valero Energy Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations that align with their mission to improve the quality of life in communities where Valero operates. With a focus on basic needs, health care, education, and civic initiatives, the foundation prioritizes funding requests from 501(c)(3) organizations. In 2019, it provided approximately $40 million to support disadvantaged children and families, emphasizing a commitment to corporate citizenship and community well-being.

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 Gertrude L. Hirsch Charitable Trust, founded in New Jersey, aims to support 501(c)(3) organizations for charitable and educational purposes. It focuses on various program areas including arts, education, environment, health, and human services. Although there are no geographic restrictions, preference is often given to organizations based in New Jersey. Additionally, funds awarded cannot be used outside the United States, ensuring that contributions remain within the country to benefit local communities.

The Helen Irwin Littauer Educational Trust Grant supports charitable organizations in Tarrant County, focusing on education, arts, and human services. Established in 1969 by Mrs. Littauer, who was dedicated to community service and youth education, the Trust prioritizes scholarships for deserving students, especially in journalism, and alleviating human suffering. Organizations must skip one grant cycle before reapplying, ensuring fair access to funding for all eligible charities.

The Costco Wholesale Charitable Contributions program prioritizes support for children, education, and health services within local communities. Nonprofit organizations seeking assistance must be 501(c)(3) certified and focus on monetary requests. Applications are reviewed within 4-6 weeks, factoring in community needs and collaboration. However, Costco limits grants to 10% of the program budget and typically restricts organizations to one request per fiscal year. They do not fund individuals or direct aid for various specific purposes.

The Owen Family Foundation Grant supports charitable organizations primarily in East Texas and the Minneapolis/St. Paul area, focusing on health, education, human services, and religious initiatives. Organizations must have a 501(c)(3) status and past funding is required for Twin Cities applicants. The foundation is committed to promoting philanthropy and ensuring access to funding for eligible charities, while maintaining a non-discriminatory policy.

The Abell-Hanger Foundation Grant supports charitable, educational, and benevolent projects that enhance community welfare in West Texas. Eligible organizations can apply by submitting a Pre-Proposal Questionnaire if they haven't received funding recently, or a Letter of Intent if they have. The foundation prioritizes projects that align with its mission and serves the local community, while also maintaining strict eligibility criteria to ensure proper funding allocation.