Ralph J. Torraco Food Bank/Shelter Fund Grant

The Ralph J. Torraco Food Bank/Shelter Fund Grant, offered by the UNICO Foundation Inc., aims to combat hunger and provide shelter for the homeless and indigent. Eligible applicants include registered non-profit food pantries, soup kitchens, and shelters in 13 U.S. states. The grant focuses on direct services, ensuring that all funds are used for food and shelter, not for operating expenses, thereby promoting effective community support for vulnerable populations.

NOTE: Food Pantries, Soup Kitchens and Shelters that are registered non-profit organizations and are domiciled in one of the following states with UNICO Chapters: California, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Illinois, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, or Wisconsin are eligible to apply.
Mission: To feed the hungry and provide shelter for those homeless or the indigent.
Funding Criteria: To provide funds through community established food/shelter programs that provide food and shelter to those in need.
The program should not be located in a private home, and must meet all local and State health department regulations. The food/shelter program should have an established track record of providing food and or shelter to low-income clientele. Food Pantries, Soup Kitchens or Shelters should use 100% of the grant to purchase food or provide shelter. The program must be located in the United States and serve people in the United States.

Eligibility

All Food Pantries, Soup Kitchens and Shelters that are registered non-profit organizations are eligible to apply.100% of grant funds are to be used for direct services (food, shelter, basic needs, etc.). Funds may not be used for salaries or general operating expenses. The requesting organizations should be registered to do business in their state and shall meet all local and state health department regulationsProgram operations should not be located in a private home. The requesting organization must be domiciled in the following 13 states of the United States: California, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Illinois, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia or Wisconsin and the program must provide services in the United States. Applicants should display a proven record of providing services to the most vulnerable population (low-income, elderly, disabled, etc.)

Ineligibility

Operating or salary costs.