Springfield, Mass.  — United Way of Pioneer Valley (UWPV) is seeking Requests for Funding (RFFs) for its Basic Needs Grant Program. These grants support programs and services in the Pioneer Valley that provide temporary and short-term food, shelter, and heating assistance to stabilize individuals and families faced with an emergency due to loss of employment, housing, natural disaster, domestic violence, etc. 

Priority will be given to programs that serve seniors, veterans, residents living in communities with limited access to short-term emergency basic needs programs (e.g. rural communities), and residents ineligible for public assistance programs (e.g. fuel assistance) but in need of short-term emergency help to stabilize their situation.

Organizations should not approach this application with the expectation of ongoing annual operating support. Grants will be awarded for a period of 12 months from July 1, 2017 through June 30, 2018.  The purpose of the Basic Needs Grant Program is to support and sustain strong communities in Hampden County, South Hadley, and Granby, Massachusetts. 

Application deadline is March 10, 2017. For more information contact LaTonia Monroe Naylor, Senior Manager of Community Investments, 413-693-0215 or lnaylor@uwpv.org.