MAR 2026

This month, the 1889 Foundation continues its commitment to strengthening communities across Cambria and Somerset Counties through strategic grant-making and forward-looking initiatives. From supporting children and families to advancing health, wellness, and resiliency efforts, these investments reflect a shared focus on improving quality of life today while building a healthier, more connected future for our region.

Grants Awarded

The 1889 Foundation is proud to support a diverse group of nonprofit organizations working to meet critical needs and expand opportunities throughout our communities.

Cambria County Child Development

$10,500

This grant supports Soaring into Summer: Enrichment Opportunities, a 12 week summer program designed to provide children with engaging educational and developmental experiences during the summer months.

Children’s Aid Home Programs of Somerset

$15,000

Funding will support the organization’s Foster Care Program, helping provide safe, stable, and supportive environments for children in need.

Fostering Hope

$4,600

This grant supports the Bed Project — Cambria Somerset, ensuring that children in the region have access to safe and comfortable sleeping arrangements.

Movement Collective

$10,000

Funding will benefit the Pathfinders: Outdoor Adventures and Mentorship program, which uses outdoor experiences and mentorship to guide and empower youth.

Operation BeYOUtiful

$15,000

This grant supports services for individuals experiencing medically related hair loss, helping restore confidence and provide emotional support during difficult times.

Special Olympics Pennsylvania

$15,000

Funding will support athletes in Cambria and Somerset Counties through leadership development and health programs, promoting inclusion, wellness, and personal growth.

Laurel Highlands Alzheimer’s Foundation

$30,000

This grant will support Alzheimer’s and dementia caregiver support and respite care, providing critical relief and resources for caregivers and families navigating these challenges.

Hope Beyond Hurt Informed Trauma Coalition

$68,000

Funding will support Healthy and Resilient Communities: A Hope Beyond Hurt Initiative, the organization’s next phase of impact focused on building long term, trauma informed wellbeing. This initiative moves communities beyond reactive crisis response by strengthening local capacity, increasing protective factors, and fostering collaboration among residents, organizations, and institutions to improve overall community health.

The 1889 Foundation is excited to announce that the Creative Health Impact Grant (CHIG) application will open in late April. This funding opportunity is in partnership with and administered by the Pennsylvania Rural Arts Alliance. The CHIG grant provides funds to applicants in Cambria and Somerset Counties and is designed to support projects that improve overall community wellbeing through the integration of arts and health.

Applicants are required to demonstrate a strong arts component alongside an equally strong health and wellness focus within their proposed activities. Successful proposals will highlight meaningful collaboration with quality partners, clearly defining both arts and healthcare contributors who share a commitment to community impact. Grant applicants apply directly to PRAA for these grant funds. The full grant application and complete grant guidelines will be available on the PRAA website.

Organizations are encouraged to begin planning now and consider how collaborative, innovative approaches can enhance the wellbeing of individuals and communities across the region.

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Grants Awarded

Looking Ahead: