The Central Minnesota Community Foundation (CMCF) offers the “Difference Maker” Grant, aimed at addressing homelessness support and prevention in Benton, Stearns, and Sherburne Counties, Minnesota. CMCF seeks to fund initiatives that will have a meaningful and lasting impact on reducing homelessness and preventing housing instability within these communities. Grants are awarded to organizations that provide direct support to individuals and families experiencing homelessness, as well as those working to prevent homelessness through proactive measures.

Eligible applicants for this grant include 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, schools, and government entities. The funding amounts range between $10,000 and $30,000 per award. The grant supports two primary areas: Homelessness Supports and Homelessness Prevention. Homelessness Supports include services such as emergency shelter operations, case management for homeless individuals, and transitional housing programs. Homelessness Prevention efforts focus on reducing the risk of homelessness by providing rental assistance, financial literacy programs, and supportive services for individuals transitioning out of institutions such as foster care or corrections.

In reviewing applications, CMCF gives favorable consideration to projects that address equity and disparities within the community, develop innovative solutions to homelessness-related challenges, make a sustainable and visible impact, build social capital among diverse groups, and inspire additional community investments. However, the grant does not fund individuals, religious organizations for religious purposes, multi-year requests, political organizations or campaigns, fundraising drives, endowments, deficit financing, completed projects, scholarships, medical research, travel, or projects seeking to replace lost government funding.

The application process involves submitting an online application through the CommunityGiving Grant Management System. The Grant Advisory Committee reviews applications and makes funding recommendations to the Board of Directors, which has the final decision-making authority. All notifications regarding the grant will be communicated via email. Awarded funds will be distributed upon receipt of an electronically signed Grant Agreement. Grantees are required to submit a Final Report and may be asked to provide a Progress Report if requested.

The application period for the 2025 grant cycle opens on February 1, 2025, and the final deadline for submission is March 31, 2025, at 11:59 PM. Funding decisions will be made within 90 days following the deadline. Interested applicants may seek feedback on proposal ideas by scheduling a consultation with a CMCF representative before submission.

For additional inquiries, applicants may contact the foundation at (320) 257-9715 for questions related to the grant or the Grant Management System. The Central Minnesota Community Foundation’s office is located at 101 7th Avenue S., #100, St. Cloud, MN 56301, and general inquiries can be made via phone at (320) 253-4380.