The Frank H. Stewart Trust is managed by Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. and is dedicated to supporting municipalities within Gloucester, Salem, Atlantic, Cumberland, and Cape May Counties in New Jersey. Its primary mission is to assist with the purchase of land intended for public parks, recreation grounds, game refuges, fishing or fish propagation grounds, bird sanctuaries, and wildlife protection and preservation areas. The Trust also provides funding for the care, maintenance, upkeep, repair, and improvement of lands previously purchased with its funds by past grantees.
Eligible applicants must be local municipalities within the specified New Jersey counties. The application process requires applicants to secure a resolution or agreement from their governing body dedicating the purchased land to public use. Applicants must also submit a certified copy of a property appraisal to be considered. Land eligible for purchase must feature flowing water courses or be bounded by bodies of water, including streams, marshes, or tidal areas, whether natural or artificial.
Applications are accepted year-round but must be submitted by May 1 to be considered at the Trust's annual grant meeting held in July. Each applicant will receive an automated confirmation email upon submission. If funded, the municipality is obligated to maintain the property acquired. For requests concerning land previously purchased with Trust funds, municipalities may apply for maintenance and improvement grants.
The average number of grants awarded each year is one to two, with total annual giving averaging $150,000. A progress report is required within six months of receiving funds, unless otherwise specified at the time the grant is awarded. Application materials, including the governing body resolution and property appraisal, must be submitted via email to grantadministration@wellsfargo.com, referencing the application number.
Applicants are encouraged to use the Trust’s online application portal to begin the process. The Trust maintains a clear communication channel and offers straightforward reporting requirements to ensure transparency and proper stewardship of funds.
