New grants for local youth

By Kristen Oelschlagel

Youth in Hastings and Prince Edward County could get a helping hand from the United Way of Quinte.

A new youth grant will be used for projects, programs and events that are designed by youth for youth.

“It can include some adult assistance, but we want the projects to be organized and executed by youth,” said Brandi Hodge, United Way community engagement director.

Hodge said they want to support and encourage youth in the area.

The United Way of Quinte is a non-government agency that funds local organizations throughout Hastings and Prince Edward County. Each year the United Way holds campaigns to raise money to fund organizations such as Big Brothers Big Sisters, the Belleville YMCA and Gleaners Food Bank. Their last campaign raised over $1.8 million.

The agency will also be funding two other grants, the collaboration grant and the organizational capacity grant.

The collaboration grant will be available for two or more organizations that are working together on a project.

The organizational capacity grant was designed for not-for-profit organizations that are working to be more effective.

“We believe internal efficiency is important and we want agencies to be strong internally,” Hodge said.

The $50,000 available for grants will be divided between the three streams. Hodge said this is something they have always wanted to do.

“Agencies can apply annually for sums of money but we have not always had the ability to support to these streams,” Hodge said.

The first deadline for the grant applications is June 28.

A team of five trained volunteers will review the applications and decide what organizations receive the grants and how much money they will receive.