Staff report

The Community Foundation of the Mahoning Valley announced Thursday it has expanded its emergency grant program to assist local nonprofit organizations due to changes in federal funding.

This expansion comes as non-profit organizations that provide services and support across the region experience budget constraints that threaten their ability to maintain programs.

“While the Community Foundation cannot fill all funding gaps, we are committed to stepping in where we can to make a meaningful difference,” said Sarah Lowry, Senior Director of Community Impact at CFMV. “By enhancing our emergency grant program, we aim to help sustain the vital network of nonprofit resources that our community depends on during this period of uncertainty.”

The expanded program will evaluate requests on four measures: supporting essential social safety net services; protecting vulnerable community members; enabling effective advocacy efforts; and building long-term community resilience.

Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, churches, government agencies and organizations working with qualified fiscal sponsors. The foundation has committed to a streamlined review process with responses, and, in some cases, grant decisions within two to three business days of application.

Grants will prioritize urgency of need; impact on community health and safety; and alignment with the foundation’s vision and values.

Emergency grants are generally available up to $5,000, with additional resources available on a case-by-case basis.

For complete program details and application information, visit CFMV.org/grants or email the foundation at grants@cfmv.org.