Paterson Impact Grant

The Paterson Impact Grant Program is a community-focused initiative launched through a collaboration between Wellpoint New Jersey and the Andre Sayegh Civic Association. This local grant program is designed to support grassroots organizations and community leaders in Paterson, New Jersey, who are driving meaningful change through neighborhood-based efforts. Wellpoint New Jersey, a longstanding Medicaid and Medicare Managed Care Organization (MCO), has served vulnerable populations across the state for over 30 years. With a focus on social drivers of health, Wellpoint’s mission centers on building healthier, more resilient communities by investing in local partnerships. The Andre Sayegh Civic Association complements this mission with its own dedication to civic engagement, community empowerment, and local leadership in Greater Paterson. The Paterson Impact Grant Program offers financial support ranging from $500 to $5,000 for small-scale, innovative projects that strengthen neighborhoods, promote health and well-being, and build local capacity. Projects may be social, cultural, or recreational in nature, or otherwise oriented toward community benefit. The initiative prioritizes grassroots-driven proposals that reflect the unique needs and aspirations of Paterson residents. However, certain expenses are ineligible for funding. These include capital expenditures (such as property acquisition or major building improvements), campaign activities for public office, and projects that are exclusively religious in focus. All applications are subject to the discretion and final decision of the program administrators. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, community-based groups, and faith-based organizations working within the city of Paterson. The program emphasizes inclusivity and encourages diverse applicants who are embedded in the community. To apply, prospective grantees must complete an application form that includes the contact person’s name, the name and Tax ID of the organization, project name, a brief description of the purpose of funding, the amount requested, and the specific population and neighborhood in Paterson to be served. Applicants must also estimate the number of individuals who will benefit from the project. There is no stated application deadline, and submissions are currently being accepted on a rolling basis. Following the conclusion of the funded activity, grant recipients are required to submit a brief final report. This report must detail how the funds were used, how many people were served, outcomes achieved, and any success stories that demonstrate community impact. The program reserves the right to audit grant expenses to ensure accountability and effectiveness. This requirement ensures that each project supported by the Paterson Impact Grant generates measurable benefit and contributes to the broader goal of neighborhood uplift. The initiative operates without a predefined end date, and no recurring cycle or future round has been confirmed. Applicants are encouraged to submit as soon as they are ready, given the rolling nature of the opportunity and the potential for funding to be limited. Organizations with strong local ties and the capacity to deliver timely and impactful projects are especially encouraged to apply. For questions or additional information, applicants may contact the Andre Sayegh Civic Association via email at [email protected]. While no downloadable application guidelines are available, all required information is listed within the application form itself. Through this initiative, Wellpoint and the Civic Association aim to empower neighborhood-level change and celebrate the work of local leaders who are helping shape a stronger, healthier Paterson.