TFEC expands community impact grants in South Central Pa.

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The Foundation for Enhancing Communities (TFEC) is expanding access to funding for nonprofits through Community Impact Grants.

According to a release, nonprofit service organizations across South Central Pennsylvania will have a clearer, more accessible way to apply for local grant funding through TFEC Community Impact Grants. The reconfigured TFEC opportunity brings together the previous Upstream and Benjamin Franklin Trust Fund grants.

“We listened to nonprofit organizations and looked for a better way to support their work,” Stefani McAuliffe, vice president of community impact at TFEC, said in a statement. “Community Impact Grants make the process clearer so nonprofits can more easily see how their work connects to this funding opportunity.”

Applications for the 2026 Community Impact Grants are open and are due by Sept. 1. The maximum grant award amount is $10,000. Eligible projects must serve individuals, groups or locations in Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Juniata, Lebanon, Mifflin or Perry counties, or the Dillsburg Area of Northern York County.

Community Impact Grants help connect charitable resources with nonprofit work that strengthens communities across the region. Per the release, the updated opportunity is designed to improve access for applicants while supporting projects that build local capacity, expand services and create lasting community impact.

This grant opportunity supports nonprofit organizations working to strengthen communities across South Central Pennsylvania and funds programs and projects that respond to local needs, expand access to services and create lasting impact for the people and places served. Funding is available for work in the areas of education, environment, health and wellness, homelessness, housing, hunger, mental health, senior care, animal welfare and community welfare.

“Nonprofits know their communities best,” said McAuliffe. “We are looking for projects that use that local knowledge to strengthen services and create impact that lasts beyond the grant period.”

Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, nonprofit organizations recognized by the IRS or organizations using a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization as a fiscal sponsor. Faith-based organizations may apply for programs or projects that serve all applicable members of the community and do not require participation in religious activity to receive services.