The Essex County Community Foundation (ECCF) has launched the Essex County Community Response Fund to address critical needs among local nonprofit organizations. The fund represents a collective philanthropic effort to support Essex County, Massachusetts-based nonprofits responding to crises such as food insecurity, homelessness, and urgent economic or social challenges. ECCF aims to work alongside donors and communities to build a long-term support mechanism that strengthens local resilience and nonprofit sustainability.
ECCF’s Community Response Grants fall into two key funding categories. The first, Essential Needs, supports nonprofits delivering services related to food, shelter, and clothing within Essex County. Grants under this category can be used for either general operating expenses or project-based work. Funding amounts for Essential Needs grants can reach up to $30,000, with a term of one to two years depending on the grantee's preference. The second category, Structural Support, provides up to $20,000 for one-year projects that enable nonprofits to pursue organizational transformation. These may include exploring mergers, significant shifts in business models, or developing new revenue strategies to ensure sustainability in uncertain environments.
To be eligible, applicants must have 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status and operate within Essex County. Programs operating under a fiscal agent may also apply, provided the fiscal agent solely provides tax-exempt status, and the program manages its own budget and fundraising. A letter of agreement between the program and fiscal agent must be included. ECCF does not fund individuals, sectarian or religious activities, political causes, debt reduction, or capital campaigns for real estate or endowment.
Grant selection is based on several criteria. Reviewers seek applications with a clearly defined urgent or near-term need, potential for meaningful community impact, a demonstrated commitment to equity and inclusion, and a history of sound financial management. The review committee includes ECCF staff, board members, and local community representatives. No formal site visits are conducted as part of the selection process. Awards will be announced in August 2025.
Applications open on June 25, 2025, and close on July 31, 2025. The application process is accessible through ECCF's online portal. There are no reporting requirements for grantees receiving general operating support. However, those awarded Structural Support grants must submit a final report summarizing their outcomes and organizational learnings.
For further inquiries, applicants may contact Amy Lowe, Director of Grants and Programs, at a.lowe@eccf.org or by phone at (978) 777-8876 x138. The ECCF office is located at 500 Cummings Center, Suite 5450, Beverly, Massachusetts 01915.
