The Critical Community Needs Fund (CCNF) is presently not open to offer support. However, it will remain in place, ready to respond in case of future scenarios akin to the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The CCNF is specifically designed to extend support to small, Black Led Organizations (BLOs) that address critical needs in the Black community arising from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. In the region, BLOs have risen to the challenge, acting as anchors and hubs for essential services to our most vulnerable populations. These organizations have demonstrated resilience by adapting to address emerging critical needs, even as their resources are significantly strained. Their proactive efforts to bring hope and support during these challenging times are commendable.

The overarching goal of the CCNF is to offer operating support to BLOs, enabling them to sustain critical services and uphold their operations as we collectively navigate the evolving landscape of our "new" normal. While the fund is not currently accepting applications, it stands as a crucial resource poised to provide support should circumstances similar to the COVID-19 pandemic arise in the future. We remain committed to the ongoing support and resilience of our community.

PRIORITY ORGANIZATIONS

Our focus is to support BLOs in our region with priority given to organizations that have a budget size of $600K or less and 10 staff or less.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

  • Have a current 501(c)3 or a fiscal sponsor with this designation or be a Church, Mosque and/or Faith Based Organization

  • The Organization must be led by someone Black and/or African-American

  • Must primarily serve Black residents of Allegheny and Beaver Counties


PRIORITY FOCUS AREAS

  • Critical Life-Sustaining Community Needs

  • Mental, Emotional, and Social Health

  • Faith-based organizations meeting community needs

  • Information Dissemination

  • Urban Gardening Efforts in Black Communities

  • Black Business Associations and CDC supporting Black Businesses

  • Digital Divide Efforts for Families and Seniors


GRANT AWARD AMOUNTS

Grant amounts are expected to range from $5,000 to $25,000 and will be reviewed on an ongoing basis.

TIMELINE

The Critical Community Needs Fund (CCNF) is not open to offer support