GRANT PROGRAM UPDATES

Foundation Awards Grants to 14 Ministries

The Foundation is pleased to announce that it awarded more than $63,000 in grants to support 14 impactful ministries throughout the Louisiana Conference in its most recent grant cycle. These grants will fuel a diverse range of projects that meet vital needs in local communities—from feeding the hungry and installing wheelchair ramps, to sponsoring a fundraising workshop for campus ministry and providing much-needed shade for children and teachers on a sun-drenched playground.

Each grant recipient is a testament to the creative and compassionate ways our churches and ministries serve others in Christ’s name. Congratulations to these grant recipients:

Our Impact By the Numbers

Grants Demographic Breakdown



March 2025 Cycle Breakdown of the $63,003 Awarded

Across Our Conference

14 UNITED METHODIST CHURCHES

BENEFITING OVERALL

TESTIMONIES

Hear These Words From Grant Beneficiaries!

From Academy for Spiritual Formation, 2024 Recipient:

“The grant provided money for our fixed costs, allowing us to reduce our event's registration fee to a more affordable amount. Even with six cancellations for health reasons the week prior, we had 46 people attending. Witnessing lives changed is the most remarkable outcome. We continue to find that both clergy and laity need time away to be stimulated by new ideas and challenging perspectives in a safe and supporting environment, and to experience time and renewal. Accomplishments were God-given, as several people received healing and/or confirmation from our spiritual directors and healing service.”

From UM Shares, 2024 Grant Recipient:

“The 2024 Uniform Distribution event was a success, despite getting off to a rocky start with several key leaders moving from the area. Each child received two new shirts and two new pairs of pants. Students could take as many used shirts and pants as were available and fit them. We distributed 950 new shirts and 950 pants over four days between the Logansport and Mansfield locations.”

From St. Luke Simpson’s Childcare Center, 2024 Recipient:

“We wanted to say again how very thankful we are for receiving the grant for our new playground canopy at St. Luke-Simpson Child Care Center! It has already made the biggest difference, and the children and teachers love every chance they get on the playground! WE FEEL SO BLESSED! Thank you again from the bottom of our hearts!”



Next Grant Application Deadline

The Foundation's summer application cycle is currently open and will close on July 1st. The grants committee is excited to receive your completed application and signature page for consideration. Please review the guidelines and priorities on our website before applying.

Need help with your grant proposal?

Britney Winn Lee, Foundation Grants Outreach Coordinator, offers free consultations—email Britney to schedule a session or get feedback on your draft.



Upcoming Events

July 1: Next grant application deadline.

November 1: Fall grant application deadline.

Find our grants guidelines and application HERE.



Grant Writing Toolbox

Here are a couple of tips for writing a grants application that stands out:

Tell your story with compelling outcomes! Instead of describing activities, focus on the measurable impact your project will create.

Use specific numbers, realistic timeframes and clear evaluation methods. Show how you'll know your project succeeded and what difference it will make in people's lives.

Questions? Our grants team welcomes your inquiries. Email us.

UMC RESOURCE HIGHLIGHT

“The earth is the Lord’s and all that is in it,

the world and those that live in it.”

–Psalm 24:1

Climate resilience is becoming increasingly important for churches and communities. The UMC Creation Care Ministry offers resources and micro-grants for congregations implementing sustainable practices—from energy audits to community disaster preparedness. These initiatives provide opportunities to practice environmental stewardship while reducing operational costs. Learn more about Creation Care resources at www.umccreationcare.org.

Faith in Action

Each grant represents Christ's hands and feet in action. Your ministry bridges gaps, heals wounds, and brings hope, transforming communities and the hearts of those who serve.



Spread the Word

Know a United Methodist Church or UMC-affiliated ministry/nonprofit doing great work in Louisiana?

Please encourage them to apply for a grant!

Share this newsletter and help us expand our reach.



Contact Us

Email Britney Winn Lee, Grants Outreach Coordinator

United Methodist Foundation of Louisiana

318.245.0485

www.umf.org/grants

Together, we're making a difference in Louisiana!