Safety-Net Grants

Purpose: Award funding to nonprofit organizations that provide short-term assistance with basic needs such as food, clothing, safe shelter, healthcare and more.

Geographic Scope: Six-county service area including Cabell, Lincoln, Mason, and Wayne counties in West Virginia; Gallia and Lawrence counties in Ohio

Award Structure:

• 2025 Cycle: $245,000 awarded to 14 nonprofits
• Varies by organization and program

Focus Areas:

• Food assistance and pantries
• Clothing and personal care items
• Infant essentials (diapers, formula, car seats, cribs)
• Safe emergency shelter
• Utility assistance
• Senior nutrition programs
• Healthcare support

Eligibility: Nonprofit organizations serving the six-county service area addressing basic needs

Process: Applications reviewed and scored by Community Impact Council (5 United Way board members and 4 community-at-large members) over five-month review period with volunteer assistance

Funding Source: United Way campaign donations and corporate/individual donors

Organization Info:

• Address: 820 Madison Ave, Huntington, WV 25704
• Phone: 304-523-8929
• Hours: M-F 8am-4:30pm
• Website: unitedwayrivercities.org

Application Process

Applications are reviewed through a competitive process involving:

1. Application Submission: Nonprofits submit proposals
2. Review Period: Five-month review cycle
3. Community Impact Council Review:
- Comprised of 5 United Way board members
- 4 community-at-large members
- Review and score all applications
4. Volunteer Scoring: Community volunteers assist in reviewing and scoring applications (approximately 700+ volunteer hours annually)
5. Awards Announcement: Typically announced in December

Required Information:

Contact for Application Details: Steve Cline, Director of Community Impact