McLean County Times

The Charitable Trust Stabilization Fund is still offering grants to nonprofit organizations struggling during the COVID-19 pandemic. State Rep. Darren Bailey (R-Dist. 109) is working with the Illinois treasurer's office to ensure the organizations are aware of the financial relief.

“Many people and groups help others out of the goodness of their hearts and never expect anything in return,” Bailey said in a press release issued on his website. “But with so many across Illinois struggling during the COVID-19 emergency, this grant may be a welcome help to some of the charities in our area. I encourage them to learn more and apply if they qualify.”

The program began taking applications for grants on July 1. Funding is available to qualifying nonprofit organizations which have a budget of $1 million or less. The grants are also designated for nonprofits helping people with food or housing assistance.

In the first grant cycle, $375,000 is available for distribution to nonprofits. Up to 30 organizations can receive grants of up to $12,500 each during this cycle.

Nonprofit programs that will be considered for grants include food pantries, supplemental school feeding programs, summer feeding programs, SNAP outreach, farmer's market SNAP expansion, access to fresh produce, and meal deliveries.

Housing programs that could be considered for eligibility include short-term housing and supportive services, renters rights, emergency financial support to prevent homelessness, home ownership counseling, foreclosure prevention counseling, accessibility in housing, affordable housing advocacy, and fair housing counseling.

The program is not funded by money collected from personal or property tax assessments, but from filing fees paid by nonprofits when they incorporate in the state of Illinois. The Fund exists to support and assist nonprofits in their public outreach programs.

The last day to apply to the Fund is Sept. 30. To submit an application, click here.