RFP- Connecting Families with Public Benefits and Tax Credits Grant

RFP- Connecting Families with Public Benefits and Tax Credits Grant

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: William Penn Foundation
Last Updated: June 21, 2025

Summary

The William Penn Foundation is launching an initiative to enhance access to public benefits and tax credits for families in Philadelphia, particularly those with young children aged 0-8. This program aims to eliminate barriers to financial assistance, which can stabilize households and improve long-term health and education outcomes. With $3 million available, the foundation encourages innovative proposals that facilitate application processes and provide necessary support, fostering economic empowerment and resilience within the community.

Overview

William Penn Foundation Background Due to rising costs of living and other barriers to economic mobility, many Philadelphia families face financial challenges. A study conducted by the Urban Institute in 2024, entitled "Accessing Public Benefits in Philadelphia," suggests that families need simple, convenient ways to apply for benefits and individualized support to eliminate barriers to access to benefits. Decades of research show that programs such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) help in the short-term to stabilize families and reduce household stress. These programs also improve children’s health status and educational success over the long-term. Removing barriers to accessing these programs not only benefits families and their children but also strengthens the community, fostering equity, economic empowerment, and resilience. Despite the known benefits of financial support, recent data shows that eligible Philadelphians leave hundreds of millions of dollars unclaimed annually. Opportunity Overview The Foundation seeks to support efforts that increase the number of individuals in Philadelphia who are able to access the public benefits and tax credits for which they are eligible. Funding will be limited to projects that will positively impact families with young children, ages 0-8, living in the City of Philadelphia. Funding will be directed toward efforts that help families access, maintain, renew, or appeal decisions related to public benefits and/or tax credits. For example, proposals may focus on direct service, policy or system change, outreach and education, or other ways to advance the objective. We are requesting proposals for up to three years of funding. After reviewing proposals, WPF will conduct site visits and gather additional information from a limited number of organizations. Organizations that propose projects in partnership with other applicants will be considered on their individual merits. However, the Foundation recognizes that making significant progress on the objective is difficult and encourages organizations to include partnerships that leverage complementary strengths, resources, and expertise to reach proposed goals. The Foundation recognizes that there are many different tactics or approaches that could be used to advance the objective stated above. All proposals that meet the review criteria described below are encouraged. WPF has $3 million available to advance this objective through this RFP. The maximum amount of funding that organizations may request for direct expenses is $800,000 over three years.

Eligibility

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