GIVE 365 Wayne County grant cycle focuses on healthy foundations

GIVE 365 Wayne County, the dollar-a-day philanthropy initiative of the Wayne County Community Foundation, is now accepting grant applications from local nonprofit organizations.

The theme for this year’s grant cycle, as selected by the GIVE 365 membership, is “Healthy Foundations: Housing, Hunger and Healthcare.” This theme reflects the understanding that health is built on stable housing and access to quality health care and reliable nutrition — the core conditions individuals and communities need to thrive.

Now in its 10th year, GIVE 365 brings together and empowers emerging philanthropists to make a collective impact in Wayne County. Members contribute $365 annually, pool their donations and actively participate in the grant-making process by voting on both the annual funding theme and grant recipients.

“Health begins with stability,” said Lacie Neal, program manager at the Wayne County Community Foundation. “Safe housing, accessible health care and reliable food are not separate issues. Together, they form the foundation for reducing preventable crises and supporting healthier, more stable lives.”

Nonprofit organizations with new or existing initiatives that address housing, hunger and health care for Wayne County residents are encouraged to apply. All grant applications must align with this year’s theme.

Grant applications must be completed online at www.WCCFOH.org by March 1 at 11:59 p.m.

GIVE 365 members will review all applications and make funding recommendations to the Wayne County Community Foundation Board of Trustees. Selected organizations may be invited to meet with the GIVE 365 membership to discuss their proposals.

With more than 100 current members including individuals, couples and families, GIVE 365 expects to award approximately $25,000 in grants this year. Additional funds also are being invested in a permanently endowed fund to support future grant-making.

For more information about GIVE 365 Wayne County, call the Wayne County Community Foundation at 330-262-3877 or visit www.WCCFOH.org.

Since 1978 the Wayne County Community Foundation has worked to strengthen the community. A nonprofit, charitable organization, WCCF has awarded more than $124 million in grants and scholarships to benefit Wayne County.