The Hospice Fund, administered by the Maine Community Foundation, supports hospice and bereavement services in Cumberland and York counties. The fund prioritizes programs that enhance volunteer and bereavement services, rather than general operations. This annual grant opportunity opens on December 13, with a deadline of February 14 at 11:59 PM. Notifications of awards are made by May 15. There is no maximum award amount, and in 2023, all four applicants received grants totaling $33,000, with an average award of $8,250.

Eligible projects must support hospice services in Cumberland or York counties. Additional consideration is given to initiatives that raise community awareness of hospice and bereavement services, improve the utilization or quality of end-of-life care, and support hospice volunteer recruitment, training, outreach, and recognition. The program funds capacity-building activities to strengthen organizations and project-specific grants for new or expanded services and ongoing programs.

Funding cannot be used for activities outside the designated counties, capital projects, or endowments. Applicants should review the Maine Community Foundation's general grant eligibility guidelines before applying to ensure compliance with all requirements.

The Hospice Fund was established in 2006 after Hospice of Maine transitioned its direct service programs to local hospice organizations, enabling them to expand their services. This fund reflects the mission of Hospice of Maine, focusing on strengthening and unifying hospice care in southern Maine.

Applicants are encouraged to contact Katie Howard at khoward@mainecf.org or 207-412-0832 for guidance. Applications must be submitted online through the foundation’s grant portal by clicking the "Apply" button on the Maine Community Foundation website. Further details, including examples of recent grants and additional guidelines, are available on the website.