The fall grant cycles are now open at Main Street Community Foundation. MSCF is currently accepting applications for several funds from nonprofit organizations serving the communities of Bristol, Burlington, Plainville, Plymouth, Southington, and Wolcott. The Online Grants Center can be accessed through the Foundation’s website, www.mainstreetfoundation.org/apply-for-grant, and includes a link to the online grant applications, the full guidelines and the eligibility criteria. Applications are being accepted for the following:

The Bradley Henry Barnes and Leila Upson Barnes Memorial Trust was established by the late Bradley Barnes of Southington to support the health and well-being of Southington residents. Nonprofit organizations may submit letters of inquiry (LOIs) for new capital projects, programs, or initiatives that improve the health outcomes of Southington residents. The deadline to submit an LOI is September 15.

MSCF is accepting applications for the Men & Boys’ Fund from nonprofit organizations serving men and boys in the towns of Bristol, Burlington, Plainville, Plymouth, Southington, and Wolcott. This Fund supports local men and boys in improving the quality of their lives, increasing their self-sufficiency, and making a positive difference in their community. The deadline to apply is September 22.

The Women & Girls Fund seeks to deepen its impact by providing grants that will allow organizations to build internal capacity to ensure ongoing support of women and girls in the local communities. MSCF recently hosted a focus group with over 20 participating grantees and community partners on the current and emerging needs of local women and girls to better inform this year’s grantmaking priorities. Therefore, preference will be given to grant applications seeking funding for three major priority areas: Services for senior women, confidence building and leadership, and mental health and well-being. The deadline to apply is September 15.

Main Street Community Foundation will also be accepting applications for the Burlington Community Fund starting August 28. Either the organization or the program for which funding is requested must be located in Burlington and be of benefit to Burlington residents. Grant requests should fall within the following program areas: Basic Needs, Access to Opportunity and Creating Vibrant Communities. The deadline to apply is October 6.

Interested organizations should contact Kate Kerchaert, Director of Grants & Programs, at kate@mainstreetfoundation.org, or another member of the grantmaking department, at 860.583.6363 for a preliminary discussion of their proposal at least one week prior to the deadline.