The Center for Family Support Foundation invites all staff from CFS New York, CFS New Jersey, and CFS SDS to submit grant requests to the Foundation to benefit the lives of those we support. Use the form below to begin the proposal process. At this time, the maximum amount that can be awarded per grant is $5,000. Please contact development@cfsny.org if you have a program idea that is more than $5,000 to discuss alternative funding sources.
The Foundation will review grant requests at quarterly Board meetings, but can be submitted any any time. The submitting staff member – and their supervisor, if desired – are to attend the Board meeting when the application is being reviewed by the Board to answer questions or clarify content within the application. The Board will decide whether to vote on the application at the meeting, or if the applying staff must revise their application prior to the vote.
Funding Areas and Considerations
The Foundation will consider applications that meet one (or more) of the funding areas selected by the Foundation. Applications can be from any CFS residence or program.
- Innovative Group Programs: Innovative Group Programs provide the individuals we support access to education, recreation, experiences, or community engagement that would not be possible without financial support from the Foundation. Examples for a grant application might be costs associated with bringing in an expert on a topic, tickets to an event, or materials needed to start a program such as gardening equipment for a horticulture program.
- Two examples of recently award Group Programs are the creation of CFS’ first play and music video.
- Expanding Individualized Support: CFS’ mission is to deliver supports that help our participants meet their unique goals. If one of our participants has a goal that can only be achieved with financial support, a grant application may be submitted to the Foundation.
- Quality of Life Improvement: Medicaid does not always cover costs associated with everyday items that may change the lives of those we support. For example, a grant proposal may be made to replace a broken air conditioner in the apartment of someone in our Individual Supports and Services Program.
- A recent example of an award grant is to provide funding for an individual in our ISS program funds needed to move to a new apartment.
Unfortunately, the Foundation will not be able to approve all grant requests due to lack of resources. The following considerations will be made by Foundation Board members when reviewing applications:
- How profound an impact will the grant have on those who benefit?
- Is the funded program unique and new?
- Are there any alternative funding resources that could cover the costs?
- Are the requested funds “seed” funds, which will help support an ongoing project?
- How many individuals we support will be able to participate compared to total costs?
- How will the program help CFS’ mission to deliver person-centered supports?
Please complete the below form to submit your initial application. Development staff will follow up for more information as needed.
