The Community Foundation of West Tennessee awarded $55,000 to seven organizations for its annual Community Impact Grants at a celebration hosted at Catbird Studio Wednesday, June 21.
According to the Foundation, the grants focused on projects and initiatives that benefit the health and well-being of residents in Madison County with priority given on projects that impact children ages 0-8.
WRAP (Wo/Men’s Resource and Rape Assistance Program) was awarded $3,000 for a marketing campaign against domestic violence, educating local businesses and employees.. United Way of West Tennessee was awarded $4,000 to start a reading program with the Jackson Rockabillies. Jonah Affordable Housing was awarded $7,000 to continue their mission of providing affordable houses to families. The Boys & Girls Club of Jackson was awarded $10,000 to have employees trained by the Michael Phelps Foundation to teach children to swim. Habitat for Humanity Jackson and Regional Inter-Faith Association were also awarded $10,000 each to continue their missions. Hands Up! Preschool was awarded $11,000 for updated playground equipment.
“We love the community grants because they go to all aspects of our community. We’ve done grants for arts, education, housing, legal services, medical care, and education. So, we really are able to touch everything that affects our community and make it a better place to live,” Beth Koffman, Vice President of the Community Foundation said.
In June, the West Tennessee Healthcare announced they would be cutting ties with the Foundation. Now, the organization is called the Community Foundation of West Tennessee. The organization has reassured the community they are still the same, and all of the money people have donated is still going towards their missions.
The Foundation began awarding Community Impact Grants in 2016. Through this program, the organization has granted $272,000 since its inception. The next Community Impact Grant cycle will open in February 2024. The Foundation looks forward to announcing an exciting new program soon. Follow us on Facebook or Instagram to keep up with the latest news and events.
Julia Ewoldt, julia@jacksonpost.news
