The Newtown-Sandy Hook Community Foundation, Inc, has announced its next grant cycle for funding.

Since 2014, the foundation has provided $1,065,907 in grant awards to organizations working with individuals who have been impacted by 12/14, and to strengthen the community as a whole to support one another. The foundation continues to focus on the development of partnerships with organizations and groups in the community who will be able to support and sustain recovery efforts for the long term.

The hope is that over time, with the right structures in place, the community will be better equipped to support itself, especially as the foundation begins to sunset, according to a February 9 release.

“Although the foundation doesn’t anticipate to sunset until 2025, I am working closely with many community leaders, mental health providers, and organizations to ensure we continue to meet the needs of our community,” said Lucie Connell, program director. “We recognize that recovery will be a life-long process for many and we are committed to provide support to individuals and the community with the ultimate vision of helping Newtown become a strong community where people connect and support one another in their journey toward healing.”

The foundation solicits proposals from qualified organizations to support this goal, with an application deadline of April 1, 2021. Grant applications can be obtained by contacting Connell at lconnell@nshcf.org or visiting the foundation’s website at nshcf.org.

Per its mission, the Newtown-Sandy Hook Community Foundation provides funding for 501(c)(3) organizations that are working to support recovery efforts with groups and individuals impacted by the tragedy at Sandy Hook School on 12/14.

The foundation is eager to partner with organizations that:

*Focus and emphasize direct service to those most affected, starting with the families of victims, surviving SHS students and staff, emergency responders, and others suffering traumatic effects from 12/14/12;

*Recognize the importance of connecting individuals and groups to cohesive relationships and have a record of doing so in the community;

*Actively collaborate with other community organizations to complement services and create a network of support;

*Offer programs and services that are supported by research and best practices in the field of trauma and disaster recovery;

*Make data-informed decisions in programming and planning; and

*Demonstrate solid sustainability plans.

This is a competitive grant process, Connell explained, with all proposals reviewed by the Sandy Hook School Support Fund Distribution Committee.

Each proposal is evaluated with respect to available dollars and alignment with priority areas for this round of funding. During the review process, staff or committee members may initiate contact with an organization if additional information is needed or if a virtual meeting is requested.

After careful review, members of the Distribution Committee will make recommendations to the foundation’s Board of Directors for final approval. It is expected that all applicants will be notified by e-mail or mail no later than the final week in May regarding funding decisions.

To be considered for funding, the foundation asks that applicants submit a proposal based on the foundation’s guidelines. For questions about this grant opportunity, contact Connell via e-mail, above, or phone, 203-461-2233.