2026–2027 Community Grant Cycle Now Accepting Applications — Deadline: February 28, 2027
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McCluskey Cares Foundation In Service Since 2009
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Applications

Apply for a Grant

The McCluskey Cares Foundation accepts grant applications through our online portal for all five program areas. Before submitting, we strongly recommend reviewing the full program guidelines on our Programs page and using the Grant Eligibility Finder to confirm which track is the best fit for your project. Below you will find instructions, required documents, timeline expectations, and the application form.

Before You Apply

The Foundation reviews hundreds of applications each year, and thorough preparation significantly improves the quality of your submission and the efficiency of our review. We encourage all applicants to assemble the following materials before beginning the application form. Incomplete applications will be held in pending status for up to 30 days; if outstanding materials are not received within that window, the application is administratively closed and must be resubmitted in a future cycle.

Required Supporting Documents

  • IRS determination letter confirming 501(c)(3) status (or government agency authorization letter for public entities)
  • Most recent IRS Form 990 or independently audited financial statement
  • Current board of directors list with affiliations
  • Line-item project budget with narrative justification
  • Project logic model or theory of change (one page recommended)
  • One to two letters of support from community partners or beneficiaries
  • For individual applicants (Emergency Relief Fund only): proof of Ohio residency, documentation of qualifying event, and income verification

Review Timeline

Youth Horizon & Community Wellness

Applications open November 1; close February 28. Committee review in March; site visits in April. Awards announced by May 15. Funds disbursed in two tranches (60% at signing, 40% at six-month report).

Veterans Bridge Program

Rolling admission, quarterly review. Submit by March 31, June 30, September 30, or December 31. Decisions communicated within 45 days of quarterly close.

Arts & Heritage Fund

Applications open January 1; close May 1. Committee review May–June. Awards announced by July 15. Single-tranche disbursement at grant agreement signing.

Emergency Family Relief

Year-round rolling admission. Applications reviewed within 5 business days. Determination within 10 business days. Funds disbursed directly to vendors.

Grant Application Form

All fields marked with an asterisk (*) are required. After submission, you will receive a confirmation reference number. Our program staff will follow up within 10 business days to acknowledge receipt and request any additional materials.

By submitting this application, I certify that the information provided is accurate and complete to the best of my knowledge. I understand that submission of this form does not guarantee funding and that all applications are subject to the Foundation's review process and eligibility criteria. I authorize the McCluskey Cares Foundation to verify the information provided and to contact the references and partners named in my supporting documents.