Amid threats of federal funding cuts, Senator Jeremy Cooney announced a $1 million state grant initiative to support nonprofit organizations serving vulnerable populations in Rochester and Monroe County.
The new “Reinvesting in Organizations That Care” (ROC) Grants program will provide capital funding to local community-based organizations. Applications are open now and due by July 4. Grant recipients will be announced this summer.
“From New Americans and older adults, to reproductive healthcare and anti-poverty advocacy, there are many organizations performing lifesaving work every day in Rochester and Monroe County,” said Senator Cooney. “While the federal government is cutting vital funding to community-based organizations, we are stepping up to meet the needs of Rochesterians.”
The announcement comes as local nonprofits face rising demand for services with fewer financial resources. Simeon Banister, President and CEO of the Rochester Area Community Foundation, applauded the effort.
“This funding comes at a critical time, and we applaud Senator Cooney for recognizing that public investment is essential to keeping these vital programs going,” Banister said.
Cooney was joined by representatives from several regional organizations, including the Council of Agency Executives, United Way of Greater Rochester and the Finger Lakes, and the Greater Rochester Health Foundation.
Organizations can apply for the ROC Grants at rocsenator.com/rocgrants.
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