The Food Equity and Emergency Distribution (FEED) Grant Program is a newly launched initiative in Frederick County, Maryland, created in response to rising food insecurity and the disruption of federal food assistance programs following a government shutdown. Announced on November 7, 2025, by County Executive Jessica Fitzwater and authorized on November 18, 2025, after County Council budget approval, the program allocates $1,000,000 in food assistance funding. The FEED program aims to support organizations that provide food and essential services to Frederick County residents in need. It is administered by the Community Foundation of Frederick County, a key local philanthropic partner.
The primary objective of the FEED program is to bolster the capacity of local nonprofits, food banks, religious institutions, and pantries that are directly addressing urgent community food needs. The program targets entities that provide services such as bagged groceries, hot meals, backpack food programs, and other food distribution efforts. Grant funds can be used for the purchase of food, essential food service equipment such as refrigerators and freezers, general operating support for food programs, and administrative overhead related to food delivery. Vehicle purchases are explicitly excluded.
Applications for the first round of funding will open on December 1, 2025, with a second round expected in early 2026. Funds will be disbursed as a one-time payment during the first quarter of the grant period, which spans from January 1, 2026, through June 30, 2026. This timeline ensures timely deployment of resources to address food insecurity during the critical winter and early summer months.
Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, religious institutions, and existing food assistance programs operating in Frederick County. These organizations must demonstrate financial need, provide a detailed project description, submit a program budget, and present relevant organizational documentation. Additionally, they must serve a population in which at least 51% of beneficiaries reside in Frederick County. Compliance with the Maryland Secretary of State’s Charitable Division, Maryland Department of Assessments & Taxation, and IRS verification via GuideStar Charity Check is also required.
Applications are submitted through the Community Foundation of Frederick County. The program’s administrators may be contacted via email at community.impact@FrederickCountyGives.org or by phone at 301-695-7660 for further assistance. This program reflects Frederick County’s commitment to food equity and emergency support for vulnerable populations during periods of economic disruption.
Prioritize serving Frederick County residents and ensure documentation proves compliance with Maryland and IRS requirements.
