Nonprofit organizations that serve disadvantaged, underserved or vulnerable communities may be eligible for grants from the Maine Community Foundation’s (MaineCF) Frances Hollis Brain Foundation Fund.
The Brain Foundation Fund awards grants to nonprofits that focus on early childhood care and education; extended-day learning; community clinics and oral-health initiatives; food security; people experiencing homelessness; and legal services. Organizations must serve communities in Auburn, Bath, Biddeford, Brunswick, Greater Portland, Lewiston, Saco and/or Sanford, or have a statewide mission in the fund’s focus areas. This year, priority will be given to organizations or projects that address challenges or needs in early childhood education.
In 2023 the Brain Foundation Fund awarded 29 grants totaling $198,213.
The 2022 grantees include:
- Midcoast Maine Community Action, to support the needs of Midcoast Maine families with low incomes
- Portland Community Health Center, for dental supplies and staffing to provide dental health care access to Portland preschools
- St. Mary’s Regional Health Center, to expand the school garden and food programs in four elementary schools.
For all recent grants and for more information about the fund, visit www.mainecf.org/brain. The application deadline is April 1.
The Maine Community Foundation brings people and resources together to build a better Maine through strategic giving, community leadership, personalized service, local expertise and strong investments. To learn more about the foundation, visit www.mainecf.org.