Greater Grand Island Community Foundation Surprises Local Nonprofits with Holiday Grants

GRAND ISLAND, NE—In the spirit of giving, the Greater Grand Island Community Foundation (GICCF) donned its season’s finest holiday gear on Tuesday to spread holiday cheer by delivering over $30,000 of surprise Christmas grants to local nonprofits. This annual tradition is made possible through GICCF’s field of interest funds, which ensure that the remaining dollars find a meaningful purpose before year end.

This year’s surprise grant recipients were selected through staff recommendations and the guidance of the distribution committee. Representing a broad spectrum of organizations, these grants address some of the community's most critical needs—ranging from youth programs and basic services to the arts and veteran support. Together, they embody the Foundation’s dedication to enriching lives and empowering local initiatives.

"At the heart of this tradition is the desire to make a positive impact in our community," said Melissa DeLaet, CEO of GICCF. "These grants are a way for us to say thank you to the nonprofits working tirelessly all year long to serve our neighbors. It’s a joy to surprise them and support their incredible efforts."

This year’s grant recipients include:
• Choice Family Health Care: STD Prevention Program – $2,000
• Christmas Cheer Program – $2,000
• Grand Island Creative District: Youth Programming – $1,000
• Grand Island Public Library Foundation: Youth Programming – $1,000
• Grand Island Little Theatre: GILT JR – $1,500
• Grand Island VA Medical Center: VA Christmas Wishlist – $1,500
• Grand Generation Center: Meals on Wheels – $2,000
• Hear Grand Island – $1,500
• Central Nebraska Humane Society: Feral Cat Program – $1,000
• Leadership Unlimited: Youth Summit – $1,000
• Orphan Grain Train – $2,000
• Saint Mary’s Cathedral: Mary’s Cradle Program – $2,000
• All Aboard for Stolley Park – $5,000
• Third City Community Clinic: Food Pantry – $2,000
• Trinity United Methodist Church: Fishes and Loaves Program – $2,000
• YWCA of Grand Island – $2,375

Altogether, GICCF distributed over $30,000 in grants this holiday season, bringing hope, joy, and essential resources to the community.

For more information on GGICF and its programs, visit GICF.org or contact the Greater Grand Island Community Foundation at (308) 381-7767.

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About the Greater Grand Island Community Foundation: The Greater Grand Island Community Foundation was established in 1960 to empower people to turn their passion into purpose by creating legacies that strengthen the future of the communities we serve. Accredited by the National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations, the Foundation manages over $38 million in assets and has helped establish hundreds of charitable funds over the past 64 years. The Foundation serves hundreds of donors annually through individual, family, and corporate legacy funds. To keep up with the latest happenings at the Foundation, like them on Facebook and follow them on Twitter. The Greater Grand Island Community Foundation is located at 1503 W 2nd Street, Grand Island, Nebraska 68801.