Press release: Maplewood, December 2022, 2025 – The Maplewood Community Fund is proud to announce the completion of its first-ever grant cycle—an important milestone for this new local nonprofit and a powerful demonstration of what a caring community can accomplish together.
In its inaugural round of granting, the Fund awarded $10,000 to directly support
Maplewood residents and organizations. Grants included $1,000 each to six Maplewood
organizations and $500 grants to eight Maplewood individuals or families facing
immediate needs.
Founded with the mission of raising and distributing funds to enhance the health, well-
being, and quality of life in Maplewood, Missouri, the Maplewood Community Fund is
rooted in collaboration. By investing locally and responding to real community needs,
the Fund works to ensure Maplewood remains a place where everyone can thrive.
Since its kickoff fundraiser at the Taste of Maplewood in May, the Fund has built momentum through generous individual donations as well as support from local businesses The Blue Duck and Side Project Brewery.
“It’s been beautiful to see our community come together to support one another,” said Board Chair Colleen Cunningham. “I’m excited for the projects we’re able to fund through this first grant cycle, and 2026 will bring even more opportunities to raise and share funds that strengthen Maplewood.”
This grant cycle funded impactful projects including:
- A family cooking class with Mosaic Services at Maplewood-Richmond Heights
ECC - Food insecurity relief through MapleGOOD
- Adult literacy initiatives at the Maplewood Public Library
- A Pride and Joy community event for LGBTQ+ youth and families with Complete
Harmony - Arts-based community building for individuals with disabilities with Artists First
- Free monthly community dinners hosted by the Community Unity Center
Additionally, eight Maplewood individuals or families received $500 grants to
address urgent needs such as home repairs after water damage, rental and utility
assistance, SNAP benefit stabilization, removal of a hazardous tree affecting multiple
properties, and a resident-led snow removal effort to keep Maplewood sidewalks safe
and accessible.
Grant applications were reviewed by a panel of volunteer community members using a
standardized rubric, with final decisions made by the Maplewood Community Fund
Board of Directors to provide fairness, transparency, and community voice throughout
the process.
As the year comes to a close, the Maplewood Community Fund invites residents and
supporters to be part of this growing impact. Tax-deductible year-end donations help
ensure even more neighbors receive support in 2026.
To donate or sign up for updates, visit www.mcfund.org.