BETTENDORF — The Amy Helpenstell Foundation Fund at Community Foundation of the Great River Bend has awarded grants totaling almost $280,000 to 22 Quad-City-area nonprofits.
Grants went to organizations that support the core mission work of nonprofits while also honoring the legacy of Helpenstell and meeting her charitable objectives. Those objectives include supporting programs for youth development, health, community development, cultural activities and education. The fund provides grants to schools, colleges and charitable organizations within a 60-mile radius of Rock Island, Illinois, where Helpenstell lived and worked.
“This fund has continued to breathe life into the missions of so many important organizations in this region,” said Kelly Thompson, director of programs for the Community Foundation. “Amy’s memory is honored — because these grants help protect children, house families, and contribute to our vibrant local culture. These grants make a real difference in the lives of individuals, which is felt throughout our community.”
Amy Helpenstell’s father, Bud Helpenstell, presented the grants. Recipients with a Catholic connection include:
• Churches United of the Quad City Area, Bettendorf, for Winnie’s Place Emergency Shelter: $15,000.
• Habitat for Humanity Quad Cities, for a new home: $5,000.
• Humility of Mary Housing, Inc., Davenport, for transitional housing for single-parent families experiencing homelessness: $18,000.
• Humility of Mary Shelter, Inc., Davenport, for shelter, housing and services for people experiencing homelessness: $18,000.
• Project Renewal, Davenport, for the afterschool program: $14,000.
• River Bend Food Bank of Davenport, for the Backpack Program: $15,000.
• Thomas Merton House, Inc., Davenport, for daily readiness of the meal program at Café on Vine: $10,000.
For more information about The Amy Helpenstell Foundation Fund at Community Foundation of the Great River Bend, visit www.cfgrb.org or call (563) 326-2840.
