Quality of Life in New Jersey

The Montclair Foundation's grant program is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for all individuals within the greater Montclair community. This mission alignment is evident in their support for organizations that serve the Montclair community and its environs. The foundation's strategic priorities are focused on addressing critical community needs through specific focus areas, aiming for a positive and measurable impact on the well-being of the community. The grant program targets beneficiaries within the Montclair community, with a particular emphasis on areas such as Mental Health and Well-Being, Food Security, and Housing. These priorities reflect the foundation's theory of change, which posits that by investing in these key sectors, they can create a more stable, healthy, and secure environment for residents. The grants aim to support initiatives that directly impact these areas, leading to improved outcomes for vulnerable populations. Expected outcomes include enhanced access to mental health services, reduced food insecurity, and improved housing stability for community members. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed for each outcome, the foundation's emphasis on funding special projects or items suggests a desire for tangible, project-specific impact. They also review applications equally each year, indicating a focus on the merit and potential impact of each proposal. The foundation offers grant awards ranging from $3,000 to $15,000, with a commitment to making 2-3 larger grants of $10,000-$15,000 each cycle. While general operations can be funded, there is a preference for special projects or items, further aligning with their goal of targeted impact. Eligibility criteria include being a 501(c)(3) organization for three or more years and serving the Montclair community. Organizations can generally apply once within a 12-month period, with an exception for fall 2024 for those meeting specific criteria in mental health, food security, or housing. Multi-year grants are possible, with a commitment not exceeding three years.