We are currently not accepting direct grant applications. When we do open up applications for grants they will only be available for projects that are directly related to the community of Point Roberts. Local residents and groups will be elligible to apply. The exact process will be posted here for the application process including any preconditions that must be meet to be an applicant and timelines for the grant application process. The information that is currently posted will give you an idea of what we are looking for when we do open up the application process. This information may change according to what is finally decided by the fund advisory committee.

Funding Priorities:

Grants will be prioritized equally across five main categories that benefit Point Roberts and its residents:

1.    Basic Human Needs: The provision of services and/or programs that meet the basic needs for survival such as housing, clothing, food, utilities, health care.

2.    Education Opportunities: Programming that provides information and education on a variety of subjects; particularly those that enhance and enrich the community.

3.    Community Enhancement: Funds that support community-wide events, services and programs that benefit all residents.

4.    Economic Development: Programs or business development that helps maintain the economic viability and stability of Point Roberts.

5.    Environmental Preservation: Programs, Projects or Purchases that help protect the environment of Point Roberts.

Grant Distributions:

Grants may be awarded at any time throughout the year; however, the Committee may decide to formalize a grant application, review and awards cycle at some point in the future should the number of requests become too burdensome. Grant requests may originate from committee member suggestions or be submitted by organizations based or working in Point Roberts.

For purposes of the Point Roberts Community Chest Advisory Committee, grant sizes are generally considered in three categories:

1.    Micro-grants: grants awarded below $500. May include emergency requests.

2.    Community grants: Includes grants for projects, programs and activities with charitable intent in PointRoberts or larger awards for major community projects. 

3.    Multi-Year grants: Multi-year grants may be awarded for a specified number of years (generally up to 3 years) at the discretion of the Advisory Committee. The total grant award will be removed from the fund and held in reserve (as a payable) to ensure the fund is not overdrawn.

Grants are generally restricted to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. In some cases, civic groups, clubs, community organizations, and individuals may qualify for grants if there is a fiscal sponsor willing to handle the charitable donation on behalf of the organization or individual making the request. Alternatively, an organization may enter into a grant agreement with expenditure responsibility included to ensure the charitable purpose of the grant. Whatcom Community Foundation staff will support the Advisory Committee to ensure all legal requirements and due diligence is fulfilled for these grant requests. Other 501(c) groups like 501(c)6 groups may be awarded grants; however, there are additional requirements for these groups that must be adhered to for financial accountability required by the state.

Grant Guidelines:

Grants may fund programs within or outside Point Roberts if they directly benefit local residents. Formal application may be made in writing by submitting a request to the Point Roberts Community Chest. The request should include:

1.    Description of the project, addressing one of the funding priorities above.

2.    Specific amount requested and how the funds will be used.

Upon completion of the grant funded activity, the grantee will provide a short written report detailing outcomes and/or notable achievements.

If PRCC believes a project failed to proceed or the original request, for which funds were granted, incurs a material change, the PRCC may consult with Whatcom Community Foundation to pursue reimbursement or reallocation of the granted funds. Recipients should acknowledge the Point Roberts Community Chest and Whatcom Community Foundation in any publications or materials for the activity. 

Exclusions and Exceptions

It is the hope of the original donors who established the PRCC, that grants generally do not fund ongoing operational costs, political or religious activities, legal fees, or retrospective fundraising. However, exceptions may be made by unanimous vote of the Advisory Committee.