Funds Available For Southington Programs/Projects

SOUTHINGTON, CT — Nonprofit organizations serving Southington and several neighboring communities can now apply for funding through multiple grant programs administered by the Main Street Community Foundation.

The Bristol-based foundation is accepting applications for charitable programs benefiting residents of Bristol, Burlington, Plainville, Plymouth, Southington, and Wolcott.

Several of the funds are open to organizations serving Southington residents, with deadlines beginning in September.

Among the opportunities is the Bradley Henry Barnes and Leila Upson Barnes Memorial Trust, which supports programs aimed at improving health outcomes for Southington residents.

Nonprofits seeking funding for new capital projects, programs or initiatives through the Barnes Memorial Trust must submit a letter of inquiry by Sept. 18. A separate continued-funding cycle will open Sept. 28, with applications due Oct. 23.

Other grant opportunities include:

• Men & Boys' Fund: Supports programs and initiatives serving men and boys in Bristol, Burlington, Plainville, Plymouth, Southington and Wolcott. Projects should seek to improve quality of life, increase self-sufficiency, or help participants make a positive difference in their communities. Applications are due Sept. 16.
• Women & Girls Fund: Supports programs serving women and girls throughout the foundation's six-community service area. Priorities include services for senior women, confidence-building and leadership, and mental health and well-being. Applications are due Sept. 16.
• Elizabeth I. and Louis J. Matt Animal Protection Fund: Provides funding to organizations caring for and supporting animals in need in the six communities. Applications are due Sept. 18.

The foundation will also open applications for its Louise Lauretano DeMars Love of Art Fundon Sept. 16. Applications will be due Oct. 28.

That fund assists established local fine and performing artists seeking support to further their creativity, develop their talents, or expand their learning.

Organizations interested in applying are encouraged to discuss proposals with foundation staff at least one week before the applicable deadline.

Whitney Shufelt, director of grants and programs, can be reached at whitney@mainstreetfoundation.org, while Grants Manager Alicia Krar can be reached at alicia@mainstreetfoundation.org. The foundation's telephone number is 860-583-6363. The nonprofit foundation serves Bristol, Burlington, Plainville, Plymouth, Southington and Wolcott. Since its founding in 1995, it has awarded more than $36 million in grants and scholarships.

For more information on the Main Street Community Foundation, click on this link.