St. Helena's Foundation of Boston

The St. Helena's Foundation (SHF) is committed to improving the health, wellness, and social well-being of residents in the South End and its surrounding neighborhoods in Boston. We aim to cultivate vibrant, inclusive communities where individuals of all ages can thrive, fostering stronger, more connected neighborhoods for both growing up and growing old.

History of the Foundation

Established in 2018 through a grant from St. Helena’s House, the St. Helena's Foundation (SHF) provides funding opportunities for programs that benefit residents in the South End and its surrounding communities. Its goal is to support initiatives that enhance well-being and promote healthy aging."

2025 Grant Program

Grant Application Guidelines

I. Mission, Vision, and Values

Mission:
Improve the health, wellness, and social well-being of St. Helena House residents and those in need in the South End, Roxbury, and Chinatown.Vision:
Honor and support neighbors and communities, working together to create great places to grow up and grow old.Goal
Assist residents of St. Helena House and nearby neighborhoods.
Fund social and health programs addressing physical, social, and psychological needs.
Provide funding for both new and established programs aligned with the Foundation’s purposes.

II. Program Interest

Health and Wellness
Education
Social Justice
Loneliness and Social Isolation
Multi-generational Programming
Digital Literacy
Other community needs as approved by SHF Board of Directors

III. Geographic Focus

Boston neighborhoods of South End, Roxbury, and Chinatown

IV. Grant Restrictions

Political activities
Fundraising activities
Endowments
Operating costs (rent, utilities, supplies, admin, or unrelated expenses)
Capital projects
Indirect costs

V. Type of Organization

Only 501(c)(3) public charities or organizations with a qualified fiscal agent are eligible.

VI. Grant Types and Size

Funding not to exceed $40,000 annually.
Open to both new proposals and continuing funding requests.

VII. Timing of Grant Applications

Applications accepted annually starting October 15, 2025.
Deadline: December 31 of each year.

VIII. Eligibility Requirements

Must be a nonprofit 501(c)(3) or have a qualified fiscal agent.
Must work with or on behalf of older adults or co-generations.
Must be in good financial standing.
Must have a plan to assess the impact of funds (if required by SHF Directors).
Must have a clearly defined leadership structure.
Must demonstrate capacity to implement the program successfully.

IX. Application Process

Applications available at: https://form.jotform.com/Sthelenafoundation/grantapplicationCompleted applications due by 5:00 pm EST, December 31 each year.

X. Proposal Review Process

Reviewed by SHF Grant Review Committee.
SHF Board may invite applicants to an in-person interview.
Final selection made at SHF Board meeting.

XI. Awarding of Grant

Grant Review Committee Chair will notify selected Grantees.
All applicants (approved or not) notified by March 15.

XII. Grant Payments

SHF Treasurer coordinates grant agreement and payment schedule with each Grantee.

XIII. Reporting and Accounting

Board may request progress reports during the project.
Final report required at project conclusion, including:
Work performed
Outcomes achieved
Lessons learned
Value added to the community

XIV. Right to Use

SHH and SHF reserve the right to use photographs, descriptions, and other materials in publications and marketing to demonstrate community support.

Any questions regarding the 2025 Grant Application or the organization as a whole can be sent here

Board

St. Helena's Foundation of BostonCURRENTLY UNDER CONSTRUCTION