Newton Et Cetera Shop invites organizations to apply for this year’s Local Giving Grants.

Local Giving grants are made available by the Newton Et Cetera Shop board of directors. Application forms may be downloaded here and must be submitted by e-mail to localgiving@newtonetceterashop.com by April 25, 2022.

Micro-grants will be awarded to selected groups in June 2022, in amounts up to $500.

Applicants for the Local Giving grants must hold legal nonprofit status and operate out of and serve Newton, North Newton, Hesston, Goessel, Moundridge, Whitewater, Elbing, Halstead or Walton.

Applicants do not need to have a religious affiliation or mission, but they must function in a manner consistent with the mission of Mennonite Central Committee (MCC).

“We’re excited to restart our Local Giving in 2022, after a year off because of the pandemic,” said Tammy Flaming, Newton Et Cetera Shop board president. “In 2012, the shop began setting aside 10 percent of its proceeds for local community giving, and this year we’re offering micro-grants up to $500. We invite area non-profit organizations to apply for a grant from our Local Giving Fund.”

“Since 2012, we’ve given away over $177,000 locally. That’s in addition to thousands of dollars in gift cards going to community needs each year through our local partners. Because of the rising cost of living, we’ve increased our gift card amounts for these community partners from $10 a card to $15 a card this year. We’re glad to be able to share with our community in this way!”