OUR FUNDING PRIORITIES

The WFSTL accepts applications for grant programming from 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations whose programs impact women, fit squarely within our strategic funding focus.

The WFSTL accepts applications for grant programming from 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations whose programs impact women, fit squarely within our strategic funding focus, and meet the following criteria:

BASED IN ST. LOUIS

Organizations and the women they serve should be based in the St. Louis region

BUDGET OF $3.5m OR LESS

Priority will be given to organizations with annual operating budgets of $3.5 million or less in income/expense

NON-RELIGIOUS ORGANIZATIONS

The program receiving funding cannot be based in only one faith or involve religious worship, instruction, or proselytization

LOI due March 29, 2024. Applicants notifed to submit full proposal April 26, 2024, Full proposals due May 24, 2024.  Grant awards announced September 2024.  

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WHAT WE FUND

During the 2024 grant cycle, we will award grants for organizational programs or advocacy efforts that align with our current strategic plan and focus on the following:

  • Increasing access to jobs for women and supporting women earning a living wage (currently $47,500/year for a family of four) including workforce development/job training (with an emphasis on female-specific cohorts)
  • Increasing supports for working families such as access to safe, affordable childcare; access to paid family leave; or that otherwise remove barriers to employment for women.
  • Increasing family well-being and eliminating barriers to economic success for women by engaging women and their children in a 2 Generation approach (See “What is 2Gen?” from the Aspen Institute)
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WHAT WE DON'T FUND

  • Churches, religious schools, or programs that promote, teach, or exclusively encourage a specific faith practice

  • Capital and endowment campaigns

  • Political lobbying, campaigns, or candidates

  • Event sponsorships

  • Scholarships

  • Requests from individuals

Recently Funded Agencies

2024 grants were awarded to

The Migrant and Immigrant Community Action Project –to support salary and benefits for two accredited representatives and a bilingual legal assistant.  These staff members will address employment opportunities by completing and submitting work authorization applications for eligible immigrant women and also assist clients navigating their work benefits. 
IHELP –to support one-on-one tutoring for adult female immigrants and regufees. The classes include reading, writing and spoken English as well as practical skills for navigating the culture and systems in the United States. Family needs are addresseed to increase stability, well-being and ability to effectively learn.
Missouri Women in Trades –to support the Women Interested in Construction (WIC) mentoring Program, and Trades Exploration which will address the need for intentional mentorship and guidance for women interested in the building trades as well as awareness of and career exploration of skilled trade opportunities. 
National Council of Jewish Women St. Louis – Healing Hearts Bank -to provide women with non-predatory micro-loans of $500 – $1,000 and financial literacy training to help them move towards financial independence.  

2023 grants were awarded to 

  • The Migrant and Immigrant Community Action Project
  • Parents United for Change – Community Organizing and Family Issues
  • The Collective Thread

2022 grants were awarded to 

  • Almost Home
  • Parents United for Change – Community Organizing and Family Issues
  • Missouri Women in Trades

2021 grants were awarded to 

  • The Migrant and Immigrant Community Action Project
  • Almost Home
  • Missouri Women in Trades

2020 grants were awarded to

  • WEPOWER
  • LaunchCode
  • Migrant and Immigrant Community Action Project
  • Center for Women in Transition

2019 grants were awarded to

  • Center for Women in Transition
  • Community Organizing and Family Issues
  • Healing Action
  • The Migrant and Community Action Project