RIDGWAY — The Elk County Community Foundation has announced its annual granting cycle applications are now available to area nonprofit organizations for the Elk County Development Fund.

The ECCF welcomes applications for funding as part of its mission to promote the betterment of Elk County and to enhance the quality of the life for all residents. Applications will be accepted through July 15 and are available via their website or by calling the ECCF’s office at 834-2125. All grant will need to be submitted electronically.

Funds will be award for such community development initiatives that will enhance the well-being of Elk County. Distribution from the grants can be used to meet special project or program needs of organizations. The Foundation seeks to fund projects that will serve the needs of many rather than just a few individuals.

Grants will be reviewed and approved by the end of August. The funds come from the Foundation’s endowed Community Development and the Fund of the Future general endowments. Last year over $36,000 was distributed from this funding source.

The Community Foundation also administers the Harrison and Muriel Dauer Stackpole Family Fund, whose deadline is July 15th as well, and the information about the grant criteria is also found the Community Foundations website. With the current needs of COVID related expenses for nonprofit agencies, this fund has prioritized the applications be focused on the Health care and Education field particularly serving the disabled, youth and elderly population.