Schools, churches or charitable organizations contemplating a small community project that needs funding should apply for a grant from the Meramec Regional Community Foundation (MRCF).
For the last seven years, MRCF has awarded grants to further local projects through its community grant program. Maria Bancroft, foundation coordinator, said, “The foundation has funded many diverse grants.”
“The foundation has assisted with many projects in the past, such as local food pantries, community park improvements, downtown revitalization and early childhood and welfare programs.”
An estimated six grants of $250 each will be available to nonprofit, 501(c)3 organizations, schools, faith-based organizations and governmental entities looking to address local needs that will enhance the quality of life within the community.
In the last seven years $10,200 in grant funds has been awarded to 41 community projects throughout the region as a result.
Awardees in 2018 included CASA of South Central Missouri, Art Works on Main, Dent County Community Foundation, Caledonia Community Foundation, University of Missouri Extension-Crawford County and the Ya Ya’s of Belle.
Organizations, schools and governmental entities must be based in the Meramec Region to qualify. This includes Crawford, Dent, Gasconade, Maries, Osage, Phelps, Pulaski and Washington counties.