The Foundation for Enhancing Communities (TFEC) is a regional philanthropic organization located in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. As a community foundation, TFEC is committed to supporting the wellbeing and resilience of the communities it serves. In response to recent disruptions in federal funding streams, TFEC has launched the Emergent Needs Fund grant initiative. This funding opportunity is intended to help nonprofit organizations continue their essential programming despite financial instability caused by shifts in federal allocations.
This grant aims to cover general operating expenses for nonprofits that have experienced substantial impacts due to the federal funding instability. The focus of the funding is to support the continuation of critical community services and to sustain programs that improve quality of life or lead to positive individual and family outcomes. The grant specifically serves organizations operating within Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Lebanon, Perry counties, and the Dillsburg area in Northern York County, Pennsylvania.
Eligible applicants must be nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status or must partner with a fiscal sponsor that holds this designation. Grants of up to $15,000 are available, with applications being accepted on a rolling basis starting March 31, 2025. Although there is no final closing date, interested applicants are encouraged to submit early. TFEC provides a draft review process up to two weeks prior to submission, and interested parties are encouraged to contact the Community Investment Team for feedback.
TFEC does not fund capital campaigns, direct lobbying, individuals, statewide or national organizations without a local footprint, new staff positions without sustainability plans, religious organizations for religious purposes, or retroactive project funding. Applications are evaluated on a 50-point scale across three primary categories: alignment with the mission of the Emergent Needs Fund (20 points), the organization's response and resilience to funding challenges (20 points), and access and inclusion (10 points). Site visits or staff interviews may be requested during the evaluation process.
Applicants are encouraged to ensure their proposals reflect the foundation’s commitment to equity and inclusion. TFEC welcomes questions at any time and encourages applicants to reach out to their Community Investment Team. Key contacts for inquiries include Caitlin Cluck, Yamit Friedman, and Teresa Gonzalez, all of whom can be reached at 717-236-5040 or via their respective emails. The main office is located at 200 N. 3rd Street, 8th Floor, Harrisburg, PA 17101.
