The Douglas County Disaster and Welfare Fund is a grant program administered by the Boreal Waters Community Foundation. It is designed to support nonprofit organizations that deliver public relief and welfare services to individuals and families affected by disasters in Douglas County, Wisconsin. The fund provides assistance for both immediate emergency needs and long-term recovery, aiming to stabilize and strengthen communities through comprehensive human services.
Grants from this fund may be used to support a wide range of emergency and welfare-related services. Funding can assist with food and nutrition programs, temporary or emergency housing and shelter, access to healthcare and mental health support, and essential services for children and seniors. In addition to emergency relief, the fund also supports financial and employment services, such as job training programs, employment counseling, adult education, and financial coaching to help individuals and families regain stability.
In the long term, the fund prioritizes initiatives that support recovery and resilience, including ongoing mental health and wellness efforts, as well as affordable housing solutions. Applicants must clearly demonstrate how their proposed project addresses one or more of the identified priority areas and directly benefits residents of Douglas County, Wisconsin.
The fund is available to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, Section 170(c)(1) public entities, Section 7871 tribal governments, churches, or organizations working through an eligible fiscal sponsor. To be eligible, all services must be delivered within Douglas County. Proposals should show a clear link between identified community needs and the programmatic response, as well as capacity for impact during and after disaster events.
The Fall 2025 grant cycle opens on August 12 and closes on September 15. Following the application window, proposals will be reviewed between September 24 and October 27. Grant decisions will be communicated on November 19, with funds distributed by November 26. The grant period begins on or after January 1, 2026, and continues for up to 12 months. There is no pre-application or letter of intent required.
Organizations with questions about eligibility, scope of services, or application requirements are encouraged to contact Kursula Harris, Senior Community Impact Associate, at kursula@borealwaters.org.
Prioritize clear documentation of need and describe coordination with other local relief efforts.
