Leona Gruber Trust Fund

The Leona Gruber Trust is managed in part by Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., acting as a co-trustee. The Trust's mission is to support charitable organizations operating in or benefiting the communities of Lehigh County and Northampton County in Pennsylvania. Its giving priorities are centered on promoting the well-being of humanity, with a strong emphasis on institutions that provide vital social benefits such as hospitals and educational establishments. The Trust also favors organizations established by the Roman Catholic Church and long-standing community programs like the YMCA, YWCA, and the Boy Scouts of America. The program funds initiatives in the areas of education, health, and human services. It aims to support organizations that are positioned to address critical societal needs such as youth development, substance abuse prevention, and services for vulnerable populations, including low-income families and the elderly. While there are no strict geographic limitations, grants are typically awarded to organizations based in or serving the two aforementioned Pennsylvania counties. Requests for endowments, political activities, and capital improvements are generally not considered unless a compelling need is demonstrated. Eligible applicants must be U.S.-based organizations with 501(c)(3) status. The Trust typically awards approximately 15 grants annually, with an average grant size of $2,000. Funding is not extended to individuals, and scholarships are only considered if administered through educational institutions. The Trust prioritizes specific project-based requests, particularly for high-risk youth or localized health and wellness initiatives, rather than general operational support or research efforts. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis throughout the year; however, for consideration at the Trust’s annual meeting, submissions must be received by January 31. All applicants will receive an automated email confirmation upon submission. Those who receive funding are required to submit a progress report within six months of receiving their grant. There are no pre-application steps or letters of intent required. Award decisions are typically made in March, and funds are disbursed thereafter. This grant opportunity recurs annually, and applicants not funded in one cycle are welcome to reapply in subsequent years, maintaining alignment with the Trust’s core areas of interest and geographic preferences.

Align with regional and thematic focus; clearly define community impact.