Summer Impact Grant

The United Way of Southwest Louisiana is offering the Summer Impact Grant for summer 2025, aimed at expanding and enriching services for children and youth aged 5 to 18. This opportunity is intended to support programs that will operate during the summer months across five specific parishes: Allen, Beauregard, Calcasieu, Cameron, and Jeff Davis. The grant focuses on programs within a variety of enrichment areas including arts, advocacy, dance, athletics, leadership, literacy, and STEM. It aims to address educational disparities, enhance health outcomes, and provide vital program expansion in communities most in need. Funding for the Summer Impact Grant is specifically allocated to cover tuition costs for children from low to moderate-income families, particularly those falling under the ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) threshold. The ALICE framework is designed to represent households that earn above the federal poverty level, but not enough to afford basic necessities. These funds are intended to help make summer enrichment programs accessible to families who might otherwise be unable to afford them. Organizations applying for the grant must be registered and in good standing with the Louisiana Secretary of State. The program welcomes applications from faith-based organizations as well, provided they comply with all outlined criteria. Proposed projects must run between June 1 and August 15, 2025, and serve youth within the designated age range and parishes. All programs must provide tuition assistance as part of the grant funding purpose, and beneficiaries must be from low to moderate-income households. To apply, organizations must complete an online application by May 19, 2025, at 4:00 PM. The application requires details about the applying organization, including contact information, program specifics, and financial details such as tuition rates and total funding requested. Key sections of the application include background information on the organization, a description of the program and its goals, target population details, and confirmation of program logistics. A final report including photos and quotes is required by September 1, 2025, demonstrating how the funds were used. Award notifications will be issued electronically no later than May 22, 2025, with disbursement of funds expected by May 31, 2025. Funds will be transferred via ACH, and applicants are required to provide banking information for this purpose. The United Way of Southwest Louisiana emphasizes the need for completeness and accuracy in submitted applications, which will only be considered once all required attachments are received. For assistance with the application process or questions about the form, applicants can contact the United Way of Southwest Louisiana. Their main office is located at 815 Ryan Street, Lake Charles, LA 70601, and they can be reached at 337-433-1088.