News

This funding opportunity is in addition to the Lakeshore Hunger Relief Mini-Grants that opened earlier this week and is designed to specifically support existing hunger-relief programs serving adults age 60 or older in Muskegon County.

Because this fund has significantly more dollars available for distribution, eligible organizations may have more opportunity to receive funding—though funding is not guaranteed and all applications will be reviewed for fit, need, and impact.

Eligibility & Purpose

Mini-grants (up to $5,000) are available to:

• Nonprofits
• Schools
• Government agencies
• Faith-based organizations

…that are currently operating an existing hunger-relief program that serves older adults (60+), including food pantries, meal sites, distribution programs, mobile food services, gardens with established distribution, and other ongoing food access efforts.

New programs or start-up ideas are not eligible.

Funds may be used for food purchases, supplies, transportation, equipment, volunteer or staffing support, and other needs that directly strengthen food access.

How It Works

• Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.
• Organizations may reapply once previous funds are spent and a short impact report is submitted.
• The fund will remain open until resources are fully distributed or the program is closed.

Key Differences of the Lakeshore Hunger Relief Mini Grant Program:

1. This fund is ONLY for senior-focused hunger-relief work.

Programs must serve adults ages 60+ who reside in Muskegon County.

2. This fund has a larger pool of available resources.

We encourage eligible agencies—especially those serving a high percentage of seniors—to consider applying.

3. Additional reporting is required.

Funded organizations must collect:

• Birthdates (MM/DD/YYYY) for each senior served, and
• Municipality of residence within Muskegon County

United Way can help create simple intake or tracking systems if you do not currently collect this information.

Apply Today!