The Saint Thomas Church Grants Program

The Saint Thomas Church Grants Program, administered by the Washington Heights Choir School and overseen by the Vestry of Saint Thomas Church Fifth Avenue, provides targeted funding support for nonprofit organizations operating within the Episcopal Diocese of New York. This geographic area includes Manhattan, the Bronx, Staten Island, and the counties of Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Sullivan, Ulster, and Westchester. The Vestry allocates a limited budget each year to this initiative with the intention of enabling immediate, positive community impact, particularly for socially disadvantaged populations. The program prioritizes support for charitable initiatives that serve marginalized communities, including immigrants, asylum seekers, the elderly, children, and individuals affected by chronic illness or disability. Additionally, grants may be awarded to Episcopal divinity schools that confer degrees, organizations working in the field of ecumenical outreach, and those promoting the life and mission of the Anglican Communion. Arts and music initiatives are especially encouraged to apply when their work benefits underserved communities or children. Grants typically do not exceed $5,000, although exceptions may be made for larger awards based on merit. Applications must come from tax-exempt nonprofit organizations. Individuals are not eligible, nor are organizations seeking funds for scholarships, endowment contributions, political activities, or general operational expenses. Awards are usually limited to a single-year basis, although organizations may reapply and receive funding for up to three years, contingent on positive evaluations of previous grant usage. Applications are due annually, with the next deadline falling on Tuesday, January 6, 2026. Successful applicants will be notified by June of the same year. The Vestry requires all applicants to submit a completed Grants Application Form. Award decisions and funding allocations are publicly reported in the church’s annual report, which includes recipient names, amounts awarded, and funded purposes. All inquiries should be directed to [email protected].