HARRISBURG, Pa. – Nonprofit service organizations across South Central Pennsylvania will have a clearer, more accessible way to apply for local grant funding through The Foundation for Enhancing Communities (TFEC) Community Impact Grants, a reconfigured TFEC opportunity that brings together the previous Upstream and Benjamin Franklin Trust Fund grants. By simplifying the application process, Community Impact Grants help connect charitable resources with nonprofit work that strengthens communities across the region. The updated opportunity is designed to improve access for applicants while supporting projects that build local capacity, expand services and create lasting community impact. Applications for the 2026 Community Impact Grants open Monday, June 1, and are due by Tuesday, Sept. 1. The maximum grant award amount is $10,000. Eligible projects must serve individuals, groups or locations in Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Juniata, Lebanon, Mifflin or Perry counties, or the Dillsburg Area of Northern York County.
“We listened to nonprofit organizations and looked for a better way to support their work,” said Stefani McAuliffe, vice president of community impact at TFEC. “Community Impact Grants make the process clearer so nonprofits can more easily see how their work connects to this funding opportunity.”
This grant opportunity supports nonprofit organizations working to strengthen communities across South Central Pennsylvania and funds programs and projects that respond to local needs, expand access to services and create lasting impact for the people and places served. Funding is available for work in the areas of education, environment, health and wellness, homelessness, housing, hunger, mental health, senior care, animal welfare and community welfare.
“Nonprofits know their communities best,” said McAuliffe. “We are looking for projects that use that local knowledge to strengthen services and create impact that lasts beyond the grant period.”
Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, nonprofit organizations recognized by the IRS or organizations using a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization as a fiscal sponsor. Faith-based organizations may apply for programs or projects that serve all applicable members of the community and do not require participation in religious activity to receive services.
For nonprofit organizations interested in applying, assistance is available throughout the application process. Questions may be directed to the Community Impact Team at [email protected].
Community members who want to support long-term, generational giving in South Central Pennsylvania can contact TFEC’s Philanthropy Team at [email protected] to learn how charitable resources can create lasting impact across the region.
