Seherr-Thoss Foundation Grant

The Seherr-Thoss Foundation Grant, established in 1991, primarily supports cultural, educational, health-related, religious, and civic initiatives within the Town of Litchfield, Connecticut. The foundations, initiated by Sonia and Hans Seherr-Thoss, have funded numerous local projects, including capital improvements for community organizations and essential equipment for volunteer services. They welcome applications from exempt organizations that align with their mission to enhance the community's well-being and preserve its heritage.

The Seherr-Thoss Foundations are private grant-making foundations established by Sonia P. Seherr-Thoss and her husband, Hans C. Seherr-Thoss. Mr. and Mrs. Seherr-Thoss became residents of Litchfield, Connecticut in 1948, when they bought 300 acres of farmland where they could raise Jersey cows.
Litchfield was the place to which they always returned, and they became committed to community service and philanthropy. They supported and served as board members of the Greater Litchfield Preservation Trust, the Litchfield High School Scholarship Association, the Litchfield Historical Society, the Oliver Wolcott Library, and the White Memorial Foundation and Conservation Center. Their involvement in the charitable and cultural institutions of Litchfield led to the idea of creating permanent funding for the support of community interests.
Both fund Litchfield projects almost exclusively. “The Foundations”, as they are collectively called, have supported large capital improvement projects for local organizations such as the Litchfield Historical Society, the Livingston Ripley Waterfowl Sanctuary, the Litchfield Community Center, the Oliver Wolcott Library, and the White Memorial Conservation Center. They can also fund out of town organizations if they serve Litchfield residents.
In addition, the Foundations have funded smaller projects such as medical and rescue equipment for volunteer ambulance and fire companies in Litchfield. The Foundations have supported the Litchfield Public Schools and many other charitable organizations and area churches.

Eligibility

Applicants must be exempt from income taxes under Section 501(c) of the Internal Revenue Code, affiliated with a municipal entity within or associated with the Town of Litchfield, or a recognized religious organization.  Applications are not accepted from municipalities other than the Town of Litchfield and the Boroughs of Litchfield and Bantam. Requests for grants must fit within the stated purpose of the Foundations: to support the cultural, educational, health-related, religious, and civic organizations that serve the people and communities of the town of Litchfield, including Bantam, East Litchfield, Milton, and Northfield Connecticut.

Ineligibility

Grants will not be made to individuals, annual appeals, or to general endowment funds.