Grants

Who is providing the funding for this grant? (Refers to Fall 2022 Grant Cycle)

Maricopa County, Pima County, and the City of Phoenix have allocated funds from the Coronavirus State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds under the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) for the purpose of alleviating the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on hunger relief organizations. In addition, generous private donors have provided funding for agencies located in other counties.

How can the funds be used?

Applicants must be able to demonstrate their capacity for expanding or improving their hunger relief programs and services. The funds may be used to cover operating expenses (e.g. salary, rent, insurance, internet, utilities*, etc.), food, equipment, vehicles, trailers, facility repairs and upgrades, and/or other capital assets. It’s important to note that awarded funds may NOT be used for reimbursement of any kind, nor for expenses already incurred.

*Awarded funds may NOT be paid to any government entity or public utility including the Salt River Project (SRP).

We received funding in round one. Can we apply again?

Yes! Please submit a new application that reflects your current needs. Priority will be given to applicants who have not received funding to date.

How do we apply?

Click the “Apply Here” button at the top of this page.

Is there an application deadline?

Applications will be accepted September 1st – 30th, 2022.

What documentation do we need to provide for our application to be
considered?

Applicants will be required to provide the following:
● Proof of nonprofit status (i.e. tax exemption letter from IRS)
● Most recent W-9 (download document here)
● Operating budget (if applicable)

Why do we have to provide an operating budget?

Donors want to know an organization is viable and well managed before providing funding. An operating budget provides a snapshot of how your organization is run.

Our organization is run by volunteers with donated food. We don’t have an operating budget. Can we still apply?

Yes. Exceptions to this requirement will be granted on a case-by-case basis.

What is a DUNS number?

The Data Universal Numbering System (DUNS) number is a unique nine-digit identification number provided by Dun & Bradstreet (D&B). The Federal government will use the DUNS number to better identify related organizations that are receiving funding under grants and cooperative agreements, and to provide consistent name and address data for electronic grant application systems.

Applicants are NOT required to have a DUNS number.

Is there a maximum dollar amount to be awarded?

The maximum dollar amount to be awarded will be around $7,500.

How long does the application process take? When can we expect a
response?

The process may take anywhere from four to eight weeks, depending on the information provided in the grant application. We may need to have a conversation with you to obtain more information or get clarification. Please be concise and clear in your request.

All applicants will be required to provide a cost estimation for their requests. Purchases of equipment/capital assets of $5000 or more require three quotes prior to purchase and payment being issued.

If we receive grant funding, how long do we have to spend the money?

Recipients of funding provided by Pima County will have until December 31, 2022 to spend the funds. All other recipients will have until June 1, 2023 to spend the funds.

Any funds not disbursed and/or expended by grantees by the dates noted above must be returned to AzFBN.

We are aware of supply chain issues due to the impact of COVID. Grantees may not be able to obtain certain equipment within the specified timeframe outlined in the grant agreement. Grantees will be considered in compliance if they’re able to provide purchase orders before stated deadlines.

Can we use grant funds for any utilities?

Awarded funds may NOT be used to pay a government agency (including the Salt River Project (SRP) for any expenses including water, trash, and electricity. Utility bills for services provided by non-governmental organizations ARE eligible for these grant funds.

Can we use grant funds to pay overdue bills? Can we use grant funds to reimburse ourselves for expenses already paid?

No. Awarded funds may NOT be used to pay outstanding or overdue bills. Funds may only be used to pay operating expenses incurred from the date of the signed grant agreement. No reimbursements are allowed.

Can we use grant funds to purchase gift cards?

No.

Can we distribute grant funds to our clients to assist them with their bills?

No. Awarded funds may not be redistributed for any reason.

What are the reporting requirements and obligations if we are awarded funding?

Monthly, grantees will need to report the number of pounds distributed, a number of households served, the number of individuals served and the zip code service areas. We also encourage you to share success stories, including photos and videos. In addition, you’ll be asked to provide two status updates on the awarded money.

If our grant application is approved, how will we receive the funds?

AzFBN will distribute the funds either by ACH direct deposit (our preferred method) or check. Either option requires grantees to have a bank account in the name of the nonprofit to deposit these funds.

I have more questions. Who can I talk to?

Please send an email to [email protected]