The Columbia Bank Foundation has recently awarded six charitable organizations a total of $450,000 to complete significant projects.
"As one of the largest private foundations in New Jersey, we are proud to help support such meaningful initiatives that positively impact the health and well-being of our local communities,” said Thomas J. Kemly, President of the Columbia Bank Foundation.
Recipients of the special grants included:
Family Promise of Gloucester County: Received $100,000 to expand the Student Transportation Program, which provides school-aged homeless children transportation to their original school district while in shelters.
Passaic County CASA for Children: Received $100,000 to support a new initiative, the Open Door Store. The store's goal is to bring dignity and normalcy to children in the foster care system by providing a personal clothing and essential items shopping experience, both virtually and in person.
NJ Community Development Corporation: Received $50,000 for the Bridge to Success program, a two year program that prepares students for the transition from 8th grade to high school.
United Way of Bergen County: Received $50,000 for the Ridgewood Affordable Housing Project, which plans to serve 16 adults with developmental disabilities. The project will consist of 2 group homes and eight independent living apartments, which will serve individuals with varying needs, abilities, and care levels.
Christian Health Care Center Foundation: Received $50,000 to address the urgent needs of senior residential living and care during the COVID-19 pandemic. The grant will assist with vaccine distribution and other procedures for maintaining a safe facility.
Arc of Somerset County: Received a $50,000 grant to help renovate Camp Jotoni, the renovation will ensure the camp facilities are fully ADA accessible and available year round. Once complete, the organization can service more campers with complex medical and physical needs.
Eastern Christian School: Received a $48,750 grant to help support in-person and remote learning operations during the COVID-19 pandemic. The grant will fund the purchase of in-classroom webcams that will enhance the learning experience for students at home, as well as Chromebooks for students receiving financial aid. The funding will also will enable increased technical support to assist with current remote demands.
