The Branch County Community Foundation (BCCF) is thrilled to announce the recipients of the 2024 Community Good Grant Cycle! This year, we are proud to grant a total of $49,321 to support impactful initiatives throughout Branch County and Colon. These funds were generously provided by seven different funds at the Community Foundation, with the majority coming from our Forever Fund, BCCF's unrestricted fund that allows us to respond flexibly to community needs.
“We are excited to invest in programs that will make tangible differences in our community,” said Erica Heminger, Executive Director of BCCF. “The projects we’re supporting this year reflect the diverse needs of our residents and demonstrate the strength and resilience of our community spirit.”
These grants will help fund a variety of essential programs that address critical needs in our communities from programs that support inclusivity, emergency relief from the May tornado, expanding childcare licensing, empowerment for English language learners, community recreation development, critical support for a local Fire and Rescue department, and more.
We are honored to support the following organizations and initiatives:
Branch County Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence- providing thoughtful support for domestic and sexual violence victim/survivors and their dependents while they are in temporary shelter, especially to those from different cultures.
Branch County Night to Shine – provide support for their annual event for Branch County residents who have developmental disabilities.
Branch County United Way- provide essential support to our neighbors who were victims from the May tornado.
Branch District Library- provide support to purchase and acquire new library materials for stocking the brand new bookmobile.
Child Care Network – Assist those who are interested in becoming licensed early care and education providers with some of the costs associated with becoming licensed. These costs pose barriers to the licensing process which results in an insufficient number of child care providers to meet the need in Branch County.
Coldwater Community Center- Audio visual support for film screenings, presentations, and webinars.
Colon Community Fire and Rescue-To purchase extrication equipment for the 4,000+ served in Colon, and surrounding areas when necessary.
Colon Community Schools – support for student enrichment and engagement and reinforce 8. desirable behaviors such as respect, responsibility, and kindness, helping to create a supportive and positive school environment.
KCC Lifelong Learning - The Empowering English Language Learners project aims to provide classes that will enhance the English language skills of Branch County's limited English proficiency community members who possess a basic understanding of English.
South Michigan Food Bank-Fresh Food and Pantry Staple Distributions - Branch County. The food distributions are designed to provide a reliable supply of fresh produce and nutrient rich pantry staples to neighbors facing food insecurity.
Village of Colon-Pickleball/Half Basketball Court. Funding will provide a new pickleball court in Colon, as well as a basketball court.
We would like to thank all our donors and supporters for making this grant cycle possible. Your contributions continue to foster growth and development in Branch County and Colon, and together, we can create lasting change.
Stay tuned for updates on these projects and their progress throughout the year. We look forward to seeing the positive impact they will have on our community!
For more information about the Community Foundation and how you can support future initiatives, please visit our website at www.BrCoFoundation.org or contact us at 517-278-4517 or info@BrCoFoundation.org.
Thank you for being a part of our mission to enhance the quality of life in Branch County and Colon!
Together, we are making a difference.