The Boston Episcopal Charitable Society provides grant support in three ways.
One-Time Individual Grants
One-time individual grants provide supplemental financial assistance to individuals and families who are experiencing financial hardship. Currently, the maximum grant is $2,000.
Clergy may request a grant for an individual by completing a brief questionnaire online. The request will then be reviewed by the Society’s grants committee. Turnaround time to final approval is approximately one to two weeks. The grant check will be written to the clergy’s discretionary fund, and they will give it to the individual in need of assistance.
The Society works within an annual grants budget and will consider requests until the year’s funds have been depleted. If you have questions or would like to receive a copy of the questionnaire to fill out and return by electronic or regular mail, please contact us.
Parish Block Grants
Parish block grants are made to congregations, particularly those serving in lower income areas where there is greater need. Funds are then distributed by the clergy to individuals in the congregation and surrounding community who have financial needs. Grant amounts typically range from $5,000 to $15,000 per parish.
Congregations are considered for a parish block grant based on the recommendation of the bishop or their designee serving as chairperson of the Society, along with input from the Society’s grants committee.
If you would like your congregation to be considered for a parish block grant, please contact us.
Quarterly Grants
Quarterly grants are primarily made to elderly individuals on restricted incomes who are having difficulty making ends meet. Currently, individuals receive up to $8,000 in ongoing annual support. The grants are sent to the clergy of their congregation who ensure they receive the funds and also keep us informed about any changes in their circumstances.
Due to the significant financial commitment, quarterly grants are awarded selectively and under unique circumstances. If you are aware of someone with an ongoing need, please have their clergy contact us to have an initial conversation about the possibility of a quarterly grant.
“One of our members who is a senior citizen, lacking benefits and family support, comes to us for needs such as adult pampers, medications and rent assistance.”
“I was able to help a young man who grew up in our programs and aged out of the foster care system to pay his rent and get a monthly T pass until he found a job. He is now working full-time and sustaining himself.”
“They can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel…”
“Thank you so much for making this happen!!! [My daughter] is ecstatic! For the first time ever, she went where she wanted, when she wanted. She was truly empowered. It was a beautiful sight!”
“The day your check arrived a very active family in the parish came to me and shared with me their financial distress. After being laid off from work and losing health insurance coverage, the couple had to pay for their child’s medical expenses out of pocket and became very behind in rent payments. Thanks to your grant, they are no longer under threat of eviction and are able to concentrate on finding work and health care for the whole family.”