Katherine Lercara Fund for Needy Children

The Katherine Lercara Fund for Needy Children is a private charitable foundation dedicated to improving the lives of underprivileged children within San Joaquin County, California. Established in 1980 through the Last Will and Testament of Gasper Joseph Lercara, the fund honors his mother, Katherine Lercara, by supporting causes aligned with their shared commitment to the welfare of children. Mr. Lercara, a lifelong resident of San Joaquin County, created the fund to ensure a lasting impact on his local community through targeted philanthropic giving. The fund is currently administered by Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., which serves as the sole trustee. The foundation’s mission centers on aiding and promoting the welfare of needy children residing in San Joaquin County. To achieve this goal, the fund provides support to nonprofit organizations operating in the county that address the needs of disadvantaged youth. Funding priorities include programs in education, health, and human services. This focus allows the fund to support initiatives ranging from educational enrichment and academic support to child healthcare access and essential social services. Eligibility for funding is limited to organizations that qualify as tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Grants are awarded to organizations that directly serve children in San Joaquin County, and no support is provided to individuals or for-profit entities. While the fund does not outline specific exclusions beyond the geographic and eligibility constraints, only one grant is typically awarded per year, reflecting a highly selective and localized funding model. The annual grant award is approximately $10,000, which represents both the average individual grant size and the total annual disbursement. This single-award model means only one applicant receives funding each year. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis; however, to be considered during the fund’s annual review cycle, submissions must be completed by March 15. Applicants will receive an automated email confirming submission, but no additional information on award timelines or decisions is publicly detailed. The application process is conducted online through the designated portal, with no pre-application requirements such as a letter of intent or concept paper. Selected grantees are required to submit a progress report within six months of receiving funds. This ensures accountability and allows the trustee to monitor the outcomes of the supported programs. For questions or technical assistance during the application process, applicants may contact Wells Fargo's grant administration team via phone or email.