The Jack A. & Gertrude W. Wilson Animal Welfare Fund is administered by the Gulf Coast Community Foundation, an organization dedicated to improving the quality of life in South Mississippi. Established in 2001, the fund reflects the enduring commitment of Jack and Gertrude Wilson to the care and welfare of animals. Their passion for animals led to the creation of this endowed fund, which continues to support a range of animal-focused programs across the region.
This fund provides competitive grants to organizations classified as public charities under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Eligible applicants must be located within the counties of Harrison, Jackson, Hancock, Pearl River, Stone, or George in Mississippi. The fund explicitly supports organizations that deliver direct animal welfare services, with an inclusive approach that ensures all types of animals are eligible for care and support.
Examples of eligible programs include spay and neuter initiatives, animal adoption services, and community education efforts focused on animal welfare. Administrative costs associated with these programs must not exceed eight percent of the total grant. While the fund does not support fundraising activities, it does allow funding to be used for bricks-and-mortar projects that contribute to the well-being of animals.
The grant emphasizes direct benefit to animals and avoids funding indirect organizational needs unrelated to program delivery. Past beneficiaries include Friends of the Jackson County Animal Shelter Pets, Wild at Heart Rescue, Humane Society of South Mississippi, Wildlife Care and Rescue, Tired Dog Rescue, and Friends of the Animal Shelter in Hancock County.
Applications are reviewed competitively, and all programs funded must be designed to provide tangible and direct benefits to animals. The fund's continued operation under the Gulf Coast Community Foundation ensures a strong focus on local impact and stewardship of donor intent.
For more information or questions about the grant, applicants may contact the Gulf Coast Community Foundation by phone at (228) 897-4841 or by email at info@mgccf.org. The foundation is located at the Knight Nonprofit Center, 11975 Seaway Road, Suite B-150, Gulfport, MS 39503. Specific application timelines are not published in the source material; applicants are encouraged to reach out directly for current grant cycle information.
Ensure admin costs do not exceed 8 percent. Brick-and-mortar eligible. No fundraising allowed.
