The Fund for Women of the Southern Tier, Inc. (FFW) is accepting applications for its 2021 Grants Cycle, beginning January 1. Each year, FFW awards grants in two main categories: educational grants for girls and women interested in continuing their education beyond high school, and non-profit organization grants for groups that have missions that are compatible with the FFW mission.
“Providing financial assistance to deserving individuals and non-profits is what the Fund is all about,” says Amanda Chafee, President of the Board of Directors for FFW. “Through these grants, we are truly living our mission to help girls and women achieve economic self-sufficiency and realize life goals.”
The educational grants will be awarded to individuals at two levels. $2,500 Scholarship Grants will be awarded to girls and women who are facing significant challenges in reaching their educational goals. Preference for these grants will be given to first generation college students, non-traditional students/adult learners who are 25 years or older, women who seek a diploma certification for high demand job functions in Chemung, Schuyler, Steuben and/or Yates, and girls and women who have overcome a significant challenge in their lives. $500 Individual Grants will also be awarded to girls and women who need a little help with the extra expenses that come along with educational pursuits.
The non-profit organization grants support non-profits with specific programming that has a demonstrable, positive impact on the lives of girls and women in our community. Recent grant awards have assured girls can stay in school, provided educational opportunities for girls they may not otherwise have access to, supported the mental health needs of girls and women at critical points in their lives, and provided safe spaces for healing and growth. The financial awards vary based on need and impact described by the non-profit as part of the application process.
Those interested in applying for either grant can visit the Fund for Women website for more information, and to access the application.