Peninsula Home Fund Grantmaking Program

The Peninsula Home Fund, established in 1989 by the Peninsula Daily News, is managed by the Olympic View Community Foundation (OVCF) and is designed to offer a “hand up, not a handout” to residents of Clallam and Jefferson counties in Washington State. The fund's primary objective is to assist individuals and families encountering unexpected financial hardships. It has raised over $4.93 million through community donations and has evolved into a vital safety net for emergency support, helping recipients regain self-sufficiency. In 2024, the disbursement method for the Peninsula Home Fund changed. Instead of providing direct aid to individuals, the fund is now distributed through nonprofit organizations operating within the eligible counties. These nonprofits are expected to have existing programs and systems for vetting and supporting individuals and families in crisis. This approach leverages the nonprofits’ expertise to ensure that funds are allocated effectively and reach those with the greatest need. Eligible nonprofits must be 501(c)(3) organizations or operate under the fiscal sponsorship of one. The grant funds are intended to support a wide range of needs, including transportation costs for medical or job-related appointments, work-related expenses like uniforms or tools, emergency housing support, essential needs such as food and utilities, and urgent healthcare requirements. Applicants are required to complete a proposal detailing how the funds will be used, provide a program-specific budget, and outline their process for identifying and aiding recipients. The grant has a funding ceiling of $10,000 per applicant. Applications must be submitted via email to grants@ov-cf.org with “PHF RFP” in the subject line no later than midnight on May 31. The application must be filled directly into the Request for Proposals (RFP) document and include proof of 501(c)(3) status. Key application components include organizational details, funding usage plan, recipient identification and distribution strategy, impact estimation, and a success story illustrating potential outcomes. The grant evaluation and award timeline starts with the RFP opening on April 15. Applications are due May 31, after which the Peninsula Home Fund Committee will review and score them in June. Awards will be announced by July 3. A grant report detailing usage, supported individuals or families, and narrative evidence such as photos or success stories is due by October 31. Reports are crucial for maintaining eligibility in future funding rounds. For questions or additional information, applicants are encouraged to reach out via email to grants@ov-cf.org. The Olympic View Community Foundation, located in Sequim, WA, can also be contacted by mail at PO Box 3651, or by phone at (360) 775-3532.