COVID-19 Response Grants

Background

Based on input received from many of our current grant recipients, we’re aware of the implications this crisis is having on your organization, services and staff - both short and long-term. The Golisano Foundation is committed to assisting during this difficult time and will try to be as flexible as possible as we navigate this uncharted territory together.  We appreciate and admire your commitment, dedication and creativity as you continue to help those in need.

With this situation in mind, our regular grant cycles for April and July 2020 were postponed meaning, we did not take applications for typical grant requests for the next two quarterly application cycles. Grant funds that would have normally been awarded and sent out during this period of time (approx. $2M) have been redirected to urgent organizational needs stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Eligibility

Applicants must be:

  • Current Golisano Foundation grantees (providers of services for individuals with intellectual developmental disabilities (IDD)) within the past 3 years.
  • Current Bailey and Friends grantees and prospective applicants during the November 2019 - October 2020 fiscal year experiencing unexpected costs incurred due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

Types of Support

Funds may be used to help cover unexpected costs incurred due to the COVID-19 outbreak including items such as short-term operating expenses for essential programs, safety net and specialty services; the purchase of personal protective equipment (PPE) and other supplies/equipment; new technology and technical assistance for virtual commuting and telemedicine; cleaning supplies for health and hygiene; efforts to ensure safe distancing in group homes and facilities among others.  Please call the office for further clarification if needed.

Grant Amount Range

We recognize that this crisis is affecting programs and operations and limiting fundraising capacity causing declines in revenue. Our grants, while limited in scope and amount, are meant to serve as a flexible short-term response fund to help address pressing needs during this time.

  • For agencies serving those with intellectual developmental disabilities (IDD), COVID-19 support will typically range between $25,000 - $100,000 with smaller grants also considered. However, funds are limited and requests will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis using the application below. We anticipate receiving many applications and it is likely we will not be able to fund all requests. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis and will be reviewed as quickly as possible.
  • For Bailey and Friends applicants, COVID-19 support will typically range between $1,000 - $5,000. However, funds are limited and requests will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis using the application below. We anticipate receiving many applications and it is likely we will not be able to fund all requests. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis and will be reviewed as quickly as possible.

How to Apply

Step 1: Click HERE to apply on the online grant portal

  • New applicants, follow the instructions for “create an account." 
  • If you are a returning applicant, simply log in with your account information.

Step 2: An access code is required to begin the COVID-19 Application Process

Please contact the appropriate person below to obtain the necessary access information.

  • For an access code for IDD application and all related application questions, please contact Erica Dayton, Grants Manager at the Golisano Foundation at (585) 419-9979.
  • For an access code for cat and dog welfare application and all related questions, please contact Kaitlin Graham, Program Officer at Bailey and Friends (585) 332-1838.

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A Special Message from Ann Costello, Director of the Golisano Foundation on the Coronavirus Situation

Dear Friends:

First, let me say thank you for all that you are doing to support those with intellectual and developmental disabilities during this unprecedented time.

I am so impressed with the creativity that agencies are using to keep as many services going as possible, maintain safety and quality of services, stay in touch with people and put programs online and in homes.

I understand the pressures that you are feeling now, supporting our most vulnerable population who have pre-existing conditions and are feeling a sense of isolation. On top of that you are managing direct care workers who need to be in close contact with people.  

We are aware of the implications this crisis has on your organization and staff -  both short-term and longer term.  Please know that we will be as flexible as possible as we navigate this uncharted territory together, with our grant objectives, progress reports, deadlines, and terms so that you can focus on your emergent needs.

How we as a foundation use our resources will likely evolve considering the evolving needs of the organizations we support. So as your services and systems change, we are open to exploring alternatives and options with you.  

We are committed to working with you and to exploring how to develop supportive measures so would love to know your ideas.

Like you, we are working from home following health official’s recommendations do our part and help prevent the spread of this virus. But we are checking our emails so please email us with any questions on grants or processes and we will respond to you in a timely manner.

On behalf of all of us at the Golisano Foundation, our staff and trustees, thank you for your tireless work around the clock, and commitment to those with IDD.  

We are with you.

Thank you.
Ann Costello
Executive Director