Julia L. Grant Basic Human Needs Grant Program

The 2025 Julia L. Grant Fund for Basic Human Needs provides funding to nonprofit organizations addressing critical safety net services in Sonoma County, California. The program focuses on meeting the essential needs of individuals and families in the community, particularly in the areas of food, shelter, and permanent supportive housing. A total of $1 million is available for grants this year, with 70% allocated specifically for initiatives targeting food insecurity. Applications are open from January 6, 2025, to January 31, 2025, at 5:00 PM, and grants may request up to $30,000. Eligible applicants include Sonoma County 501(c)(3) nonprofits or organizations with fiscal sponsorship from a 501(c)(3). Programs must directly provide services addressing food, shelter, and housing needs; referral-based programs are not eligible. Additionally, the program prioritizes services for those living on the margins of society and emphasizes minimizing barriers to access. The grants may cover program overhead expenses without restrictions. Requests for direct financial assistance, such as rental or utility aid or gift cards, are not considered. Applications must be submitted through the Community Foundation Sonoma County’s online portal. New users need to create an account, while returning users must log in with their credentials. The application includes a series of questions on organizational and program information. Applicants using fiscal sponsors must upload a completed Fiscal Sponsorship Form and the sponsor’s organizational budget. Assistance with the online submission process is available through the foundation's FAQs or by contacting Annette Williams, Community Impact Coordinator. The application timeline starts with submissions opening on January 6, 2025. Award decisions will be communicated in late February, and the grant period will run from March 15, 2025, to March 14, 2026. Past grantees have used funds for diverse purposes, such as providing healthy food boxes, drop-in shelter services, and tailored meals for medically vulnerable populations. In 2024, 42 grants were awarded with a median size of $20,000. For questions about the program or eligibility, contact José Castro Gambino, Community Impact Officer, at jcastro@sonomacf.org or 707-360-6140. For technical support with the application process, applicants can reach out to Annette Williams at awilliams@sonomacf.org or 707-303-9639. Detailed program information and the application link are available on the Community Foundation Sonoma County’s website.