Quick support for unexpected challenges
Emergency grants are designed to help nonprofits respond to urgent, unforeseen events that could disrupt their stability or hinder their ability to carry out their mission. These requests are reviewed quickly so organizations can continue serving the community when it matters most.
Who May Apply
Nonprofit organizations that serve Elkhart County.
What to Expect
- Grant range: $250 to $25,000
- 48-hour review process
- Apply online anytime
- If approved, funding is typically processed within two weeks—and sometimes as quickly as 72 hours
What Qualifies
Emergency grants may support urgent needs such as:
- Natural or accidental disasters (fire, flood, etc.)
- Theft or damage of essential equipment
- Facility issues that prevent program operation
- Sudden equipment failure threatening services or programming
What Doesn’t Qualify
Emergency grants are not intended for:
- Long-term funding gaps or a gradual decline in support
- Bridge funding while waiting for government reimbursement
- Starting new programs or initiatives
- Building or grounds projects for churches (except when public services are provided)
- Food requests
They also cannot cover problems due to lack of planning, such as:
- Letting a lease expire without securing alternate space
- Over-reliance on a small donor base without a sustainability plan
- Unpaid taxes or recurring budget deficits
- Construction projects with inadequate contingency planning
- Equipment failure due to missed maintenance or replacement planning
How Requests Are Reviewed
Emergency grant applications are first reviewed by a program officer. If more details are needed, someone from our team will follow up. All applications receive fair and timely consideration, though funding is not guaranteed. Final decisions are made by program staff, with input from committee chairs as needed.
