The Harry L. Katz Memorial Trust Fund was established in 1954 under the will of Harry L. Katz, a resident of Atlantic City, New Jersey. The trust supports charitable, religious, scientific, literary, and educational purposes through grantmaking in Atlantic County, with a particular emphasis on benefiting Jewish organizations. The trust is administered by Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., which serves as the sole trustee overseeing the fund’s operations and application process.
Grants are awarded annually to organizations that qualify under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. While Jewish charities are prioritized, other eligible charitable organizations located in Atlantic County, New Jersey, are also encouraged to apply. The trust gives preference to applicants within the county and to those aligned with Jewish religious or cultural missions. However, religious grants are limited to Jewish synagogues; Christian churches are excluded, although programs that promote interfaith dialogue may be considered.
The typical grant size ranges between $20,000 and $60,000, and the trust awards approximately five grants each year. There is no minimum or maximum stated, but applicants are expected to align their funding request within this range. The trust operates on an annual review cycle, with a firm deadline of September 1. Applications may be submitted throughout the year but must be received by this date to be considered at the annual meeting.
Applications are submitted online. Once a submission is received, applicants will receive an automated confirmation email. If a project is funded, periodic progress reports may be required. The fund does not provide renewable or multiyear grants, nor does it support churches outside of the Jewish faith.
The trust encourages organizations serving Atlantic County to apply, especially those that contribute to the cultural, educational, health, human services, and religious landscape of the region. Its commitment to supporting a broad spectrum of charitable initiatives ensures that grant funds are directed toward efforts that enrich community life, particularly within the Jewish community of Atlantic County.
Preference for Atlantic County-based Jewish organizations; limit requests to $20,000–$60,000; ensure 501(c)(3) compliance.
