Lowndes United Way Hands Out Grants

COLUMBUS, Miss.  – United Way of Lowndes County recently dispersed nearly $30,000 in Venture Grants to local organizations.

Venture Grants differ from United Way’s annual allocations to agencies currently under their umbrella. Venture Grants are smaller and may be provided to any non-profit, whether funded by United Way or not. The requirements to apply for a Venture Grant is that it must be a new program, expansion of an existing program, or a capital improvement that will enhance service to the community. This year, seven agencies received grants.

“As the economy shifts and needs increase, we are proud of the agencies who step up with new and improved ideas on how to meet those needs in our community,” United Way Executive Director, Patricia Brock.

Venture Grants recipients include United Way agencies Boys and Girls Club (student meal program), Father’s Child Ministry (college visits for high schoolers), Contact Helpline (upgrade phone system), Lowndes County 4H (expand current community sewing program), Recovery House (implement new therapy program), Safe Haven (staff training for new domestic abuse initiative), and the YMCA (support for new youth camp).