The diocesan Aid to the Needy committee finalized its recommendations for grant recipients for FY 2010-11. A total of $35,200 was granted to 26 organizations across the Diocese of Helena. All six deaneries have organizations that received grants, as shown above.

Funding criteria and the grant application were revised for this funding cycle, Pastoral Services Director Mark Frei said. The maximum individual grant amount increased to $2,000, from $1,500. Frei said the Aid to the Needy committee determines the individual grant amounts awarded on a case-by-case basis.

Grant requests must be endorsed by the local parish priest or parish administrator, Frei said.

The funding criteria specify that providing a fundamental option for the poor is a leading priority. Additionally, activities and policies of the organizations seeking grants must not be contrary to the moral and social teachings of the Catholic Church. Criteria also outline preferences for awarding grants to provide direct assistance to the poor; to organizations that demonstrate community participation, have volunteer workers and receive local donations; and to organizations that demonstrate fiscal planning, organized fundraising and have both an involved board of directors and a clear mission statement.

Money for Aid to the Needy grants comes from gifts to the Annual Catholic Appeal, or ACA.

The next grant cycle for FY 2011-12 will begin early in 2011.

For more information about the grants, contact the diocesan Pastoral Services Division at 406-442-5820.


Published in The Montana Catholic Online, Volume 26, No. 7, July 16, 2010.