Diocese of Easton Awards Church Grants Up to $5,000

The Diocese of Easton awarded grants totaling up to $5,000 each to churches funding community outreach projects in 2026. The money comes from investment returns on assets transferred from St. Stephen's Church of East New Market, Maryland.

Three projects received funding: a community garden on church property for residents of an adjacent apartment complex, durable luggage for children in foster care, and a family dining program paired with a food pantry.

"The committee that created the fund wanted parishes to look beyond their own needs," Bishop Bud Shand said. "It was driven by mission not maintenance."

Churches and missions across the diocese may apply by demonstrating the value and impact of their proposed ministry. Applications must detail anticipated expenses and other expected revenue. Each parish vestry must approve and oversee the initiative.

In 2025, the Diocesan Council voted unanimously to add food to the list of qualified expenses, responding to growing food insecurity across the diocese.

The grant application form will be posted by Aug. 1. Church leaders may contact the Grants Initiative Committee for assistance: Rev. Charlotte Meyer at [email protected], Chrissy Aull at [email protected], Lee Ellen Griffith at [email protected], or Megan Timms at [email protected].