[Essex County Community Foundation](https://www.eccf.org)

March 2027 (Full application deadline, projected)

Up to $15,000 per grant (average ~$6,000); annual awards.

Supports high-quality summer programs for youth in Greater Lawrence, focused on academic, social, and emotional growth.

For 501(c)(3) nonprofits or umbrella programs serving Lawrence, Methuen, Andover, and North Andover youth.

--- ## Description The Greater Lawrence Summer Fund (GLSF) is dedicated to closing opportunity and achievement gaps for youth in Greater Lawrence by supporting high-quality summer programs. The fund prioritizes programs that promote social, emotional, and academic development, affirm and celebrate racial and cultural identity, foster relationship building, and reduce summer learning loss. With over 30 years of history, GLSF seeks to provide young people with enriching experiences, skill development, and exposure to new opportunities during the summer months. --- ## Due Dates - March 2027 (anticipated/projected full application deadline) *All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates.* --- ## Funding Amount - Grants of up to $15,000 per program - Typical (average) award is approximately $6,000 - Funding is annual and competitive --- ## Eligibility - Applicants must have 501(c)(3) tax status under the IRS code. - Programs must serve youth from Lawrence, Methuen, Andover, and North Andover. - Agencies located outside these communities may apply if their proposal details how Greater Lawrence youth will participate (e.g., transportation considerations). - Funds must be reserved for eligible youth from the designated communities. - Stand-alone programs within umbrella organizations are eligible if: - The umbrella organization provides only 501(c)(3) status. - The program has a separate budget and raises its own funds. - A letter of agreement exists between the program and umbrella organization. - The program is core to the umbrella organization’s mission and serves a substantial number of its core clients. - GLSF does not fund: - Individuals - Sectarian or religious purposes (but non-sectarian programs by religious sponsors are eligible if enrollment is open and free of mandatory religious activity) - Political purposes - Debt or deficit reduction - Capital campaigns for buildings, land, or endowment - Academic research - Residential camps must meet ACA guidelines; day programs must comply with Massachusetts DPH licensing. --- ## Application Process - Applications must be submitted via the [ECCF Application Portal](https://www.grantinterface.com/Home/Logon?urlkey=eccf). - New applicants should review the [Grant Application Process](https://www.eccf.org/grant-application-process/) for portal access instructions. - Proposals are reviewed each spring by ECCF staff and the GLSF Committee. - The review process typically takes about two months and may involve site visits or follow-up questions. - Final reports from grant recipients are required by September via the application portal. --- ## Additional Information - Programs should demonstrate strong, diverse leadership and a commitment to equity and inclusion. - Proposals are evaluated for fiscal soundness and alignment with GLSF priorities. - ECCF maintains a non-discrimination policy in its grantmaking. --- ## External Links - [Greater Lawrence Summer Fund program page](https://www.eccf.org/greater-lawrence-summer-fund) - [ECCF Application Portal](https://www.grantinterface.com/Home/Logon?urlkey=eccf) - [Grant Application Process overview](https://www.eccf.org/grant-application-process/) --- ## Contact Information | Name | Role | Email | Phone | |----------------------------|-------------------------------------|----------------------------|--------------------------| | Hehershe Busuego | Vice President of Equity Initiatives | h.busuego@eccf.org | (978) 777-8876 x128 | | ECCF General Inquiries | - | info@eccf.org | (978) 777-8876 | | Mailing Address | - | - | 500 Cummings Center, Suite 5450, Beverly, MA 01915 | ---

Greater Lawrence Summer Fund

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