Light a Single Candle Foundation (LASC) is a private philanthropic organization dedicated to reducing poverty through sustainable development initiatives. Guided by a faith-based perspective, the foundation channels its gratitude for divine blessings into impactful grants that seek to make a meaningful difference in the lives of the poor and underserved. It was founded with the conviction that targeted philanthropy can foster long-term solutions, aligning closely with the mission of nurturing hope by addressing poverty-related challenges.
LASC focuses its grantmaking within three specific geographic areas: internationally, the Greater Metropolitan St. Louis region in Missouri, and West Central Illinois. Proposals that fall outside of these geographic boundaries are not eligible for consideration. The foundation supports a broad range of projects that are consistent with its philosophy and mission of fostering economic opportunity and sustainable impact in communities grappling with poverty.
The grant submission process is open throughout the year, with both monthly and quarterly review cycles, depending on the scope and complexity of the proposal. Smaller or less complex grants may be reviewed monthly, while more substantial or intricate requests are evaluated quarterly, with submission deadlines spaced evenly throughout the year. For 2025–2026, key quarterly submission deadlines include October 4, 2025; January 17, 2026; March 28, 2026; June 27, 2026; and September 12, 2026. Applications submitted after the deadline are automatically deferred to the next review cycle.
Applicants interested in initiating a funding relationship with LASC must first submit a Letter of Inquiry (LOI), which serves as an introduction to their organization and proposed project. The foundation encourages new partners to use this process to ensure alignment with LASC’s mission and priorities before submitting full proposals. The LOI acts as a preliminary filter to assess the fit and potential of a new partnership.
Although specific evaluation criteria and application components are not detailed, it is implied that proposals are assessed based on their alignment with LASC’s mission, geographic eligibility, and potential for sustainable impact. The absence of stated restrictions on allowable use suggests a relatively open funding scope, though proposals must adhere to LASC's focus on poverty alleviation. No matching requirements or cost-sharing provisions are stated.
LASC's headquarters is located at 17050 Baxter Road, Suite 125, Chesterfield, MO 63005. While the application portal details are not provided, all relevant communications and submissions should be addressed through the foundation’s website or contact channels. The foundation’s structured timeline and recurring application windows allow potential applicants to plan accordingly for future funding rounds.
