Foundation awards $35,000 in Fund for Hutchinson grants

Foundation awards $35,000 in Fund for Hutchinson grants

Hutchinson Community Foundation recently awarded $35,000 to three nonprofit organizations in the first round of its 2021 Fund for Hutchinson grant cycle.

Established in 1990, the Fund for Hutchinson serves as a permanent resource for the changing needs of Reno County. Grants represent an innovative approach or collaboration, a new efficiency, a critical need that requires funding or an opportunity that needs a bit of local support to leverage resources for the community.

Proposals for the grants are accepted year-round, with awards decided in March, May, July, September and November.

The following organizations received grants in March.

Bluestem PACE, New Bluestem PACE Alternative Care Site in Hutchinson, $5,000: Funds will allow for the purchase of therapy equipment and furniture for the new Bluestem PACE alternative care site in Hutchinson that will serve program participants throughout Reno County. Bluestem PACE aims to improve the mobility and health of eligible seniors so they can remain safe and independent in their homes for as long as possible.

Salvation Army of Reno County, Pathway of Hope, $15,000/year for three years: This grant will provide bridge funding as The Salvation Army increases staffing, allowing continued implementation of their emergency services while increasing opportunities for Reno County individuals and families to participate in the Pathway of Hope program, which helps people reach a level of stability that is necessary to begin moving out of poverty.

Youthrive, Youthrive Dragon Project, $15,000: This project will increase enrollment and decrease drop-out rates among Hutchinson Community College students who have aged out of foster care. It will build partnerships with the college to better support students by advocating for them to connect with campus and community resources and creating a support group to establish a nurturing community and an environment in which they will thrive in their school experience.