MORRISTOWN, NEW JERSEY (December 16, 2020) - The Provident Bank Foundation (PBF) today announced its grant opportunities for 2021. In 2020, PBF provided grants to 109 organizations in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. This year, PBF will offer Major Grants and Community Grants to organizations with programs, projects, or initiatives making a meaningful impact across communities served by Provident Bank.

Major Grants

In 2021, Major Grants will focus on funding programs, projects, or initiatives that address immediate needs, create meaningful impact, and lead to sustainable community enhancement. Requests that detail reliable methods for measuring change over time will have a competitive advantage, as will those that offer a regular and sustained presence in the lives of program participants. Major Grant funding will be between $5,000 and $25,000.

Community Grants

New this year, PBF’s Community Grant program will focus on funding organizations in need of strategic operating support. Community Grants will be awarded to eligible organizations as general operating support or unrestricted grants. Community Grants will offer funding between $1,000 and $5,000.

“We believe that unrestricted funding to organizations whose missions are aligned with ours is the best way to achieve lasting impact and give our grant partners the flexibility needed to reach their goals,” said Samantha Plotino, Executive Director of The Provident Bank Foundation. “Rapidly changing societal circumstances are causing the needs of our communities to shift dramatically. Allowing our partners to modify their use of funds accordingly will enable them to innovate, grow, and serve their communities in the way they know best.”

Letters of Intent (LOIs) will be available on PBF’s website on January 4, 2021, for the first cycle of Major Grants. Applications will also be accepted for Community Grants beginning January 4. PBF Signature Grants have been temporarily suspended for 2021.

All grants will be selected based on alignment within PBF’s three priority areas:

• Community Enrichment: Programs that drive economic development, contribute to a more well-rounded community experience, serve those with special needs, and provide increased access to information and culture.
• Education: Innovative programming that expands access to, and improves the quality of, well-rounded educational experiences through strong academic support and curriculum development.
• Health, Youth & Families: Programs that ensure people of all ages and means have the ability to live healthier, more fulfilling lives, including access to quality healthcare, nutrition and wellness, and mentorship opportunities.

Application Process

Please visit PBF’s website for more information on the application process.

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About The Provident Bank Foundation

The Provident Bank Foundation was established in 2003 by Provident Bank to enhance the quality of life in the region through support of not-for-profit groups, institutions, schools and other 501(c)(3) organizations that provide services in communities served by the Bank. Since inception, the Foundation has granted more than $25 million to not-for-profit organizations and institutions working toward stronger communities. For more information, visit www.theprovidentbankfoundation.org or call (862) 260-3990.