The PB&J Fund, established by the Charlottesville Area Community Foundation, aims to support community programs that empower children and families through culinary and nutritional education while improving access to affordable, healthful food for under-resourced community members. The fund envisions fostering food sovereignty within both local and global communities. The grant is available to organizations that align with these goals and can demonstrate a commitment to enhancing the well-being of the populations they serve.

The primary purpose of the PB&J Fund is to provide financial support for initiatives that promote healthy eating and food access. The fund values respect for diverse communities, a commitment to learning about healthy eating, caring for those in need, and collaboration among community partners. By focusing on these values, the fund seeks to create a more equitable food system and improve the overall health of the community.

Funding from the PB&J Fund ranges from $10,000 to $100,000, with awards available for one or two years. Organizations can apply for one-time, unrestricted awards of up to $25,000 for a single year or multi-year awards totaling up to $50,000. The funds can be used flexibly to support various activities that align with the mission of the grant.

Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, governmental or religious entities, or organizations that are fiscally sponsored by a 501(c)(3). The fund specifically targets proposals that impact populations living within the City of Charlottesville and Albemarle County. Organizations may submit only one application unless they are public schools. Previous recipients of funding from the foundation are also encouraged to apply.

The application process requires organizations to address specific questions that reflect the evaluation criteria set by the PB&J Fund Grant Committee. Proposals will be assessed based on their alignment with the grant's purpose, the capacity of the organization to execute the proposed project, the engagement of affected communities in the planning process, financial stewardship, and the clarity of the expected impact and evaluation methods.

The timeline for the PB&J Fund includes a deadline for applications set for September 30, 2024. Organizations interested in applying should ensure that their proposals are submitted by this date to be considered for funding. The grant is currently accepting applications, and interested parties can find more information on the Charlottesville Area Community Foundation's website.

For further inquiries, potential applicants can contact Daniel Fairley via email at dfairley@cacfonline.org. The PB&J Fund represents an opportunity for organizations dedicated to improving food access and nutrition education to secure funding that can significantly impact their communities.