Small Capital Grants Increase Capacity for Nonprofits
Since launching the Small Capital Grants program in 2004, we have awarded more than $11.5 million to over 260 organizations in Greater Boston and Eastern Massachusetts Gateway Cities.
Tens of thousands of people are touched by these projects each year. Most grantees serve individuals, children, and families in economically disadvantaged communities.
For small- to medium-sized nonprofits, grants of up to $50,000 significantly increase their capacity to serve clients and achieve their mission.
Serving Meals
Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro South purchased a refrigerated cargo van to support its daily nutrition program, which provides more than 100,000 meals each year to children at its Clubs in Brockton and Taunton. During the coronavirus crisis, the van enabled the Clubs to provide “grab and go” dinners for all young people in the community, not only its members.
Renovating a Kitchen
Cambridge Family & Children’s Service renovated the kitchen at its Teens Learning Choices (TLC) residential group home for women ages 16-21 who are in foster care and preparing to transition to independent living. The kitchen was in dire need of repair due to heavy use and at risk of failing the inspection necessary to maintain its Department of Early Education and Care license.
Upgrading Technology
Coalition for a Better Acre (CBA) purchased laptops and a server and made other upgrades to its technology infrastructure. This helped build capacity for its programming and services, which focus on increasing economic opportunities for residents of Greater Lowell. This technology was crucial for CBA staff when they needed to shift to working remotely during the coronavirus pandemic.
Upgrading Phone System
Community Economic Development Center (CEDC) in New Bedford upgraded its phone and computer systems to accommodate the high volume of calls and appointments for its Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) free tax preparation program. CEDC’s VITA program generates more than $3 million in refunds and saves clients over $300,000 in preparation costs.
Investing in New Technology and Equipment
Families First Parenting Programs secured new laptops, speakers, projectors, tablets, and other technology and equipment to support delivery of its Power of Parenting program. These were crucial investments in supporting the organization’s goal of tripling its impact over the next three years. The new technology improved data collection and saved significant time for Parenting Educators who delivered the program at a dozen different sites.
Transporting Fathers Coming Home
Fathers’ Uplift purchased a passenger van for its Fathers’ Homecoming Program to assist fathers recently released from incarceration with their transportation needs. Licensed staff, social workers, and coaches work with incarcerated fathers three months prior to their release so the fathers can overcome barriers that prevent them from remaining engaged in their children’s lives. The program aims to reduce recidivism and build healthy families.