First 5 Merced County opens up second cycle of mini-grants

First 5 Merced County opened its second cycle of community mini-grants for 2014-15, which are meant to be distributed among local organizations that propose programs benefiting children age 5 and under.

Martha Hermosillo, First 5 Merced County’s executive director, said applicants can be granted between $250 and $3,000 for their projects. She estimates a little more than $21,000 is available for this second cycle of grants.

Last month, $11,250 was distributed during the first cycle. Some of the grantees included Alpha Pregnancy Help Center, which proposed parenting classes in Winton. Hermosillo explained that parenting instruction tends to greatly benefit underserved communities like Winton.

Training for parents who are recovering from alcohol and drug abuse and a nine-week parenting course for families in the city of Merced will also be paid through the First 5 mini-grants.

Funding was also awarded to Playhouse Merced, which will put on a science and cooking event for young children.

Those eligible to apply include: nonprofit agencies, private businesses, community groups and governmental units. Hermosillo explained that funding cannot be used to supplant or enhance existing projects. The programs must be new, different and beneficial to the education, health and well-being of Merced children.

Completed applications for the second round of mini-grants are due by 4 p.m. Feb. 20. All allocated funds must be spent before June 30.

Hermosillo said that throughout the years these grants have had a positive impact in communities, and she welcomes anyone with innovative ideas to apply. “It’s only $3,000, but with a little creativity it’s amazing what people can do in the community with $3,000,” Hermosillo said.

For application instructions, visit www.first5mercedcounty.org or call (209) 385-7337.

This story was originally published January 5, 2015 at 6:27 PM with the headline "First 5 Merced County opens up second cycle of mini-grants."