Bishop's fund to help state nonprofits now taking applications

Gather, which works to make the Seacoast a hunger-free community, received a BCAF grant in 2022 to support a new mobile food pantry. (Courtesy photo)

MANCHESTER - The Bishop's Charitable Assistance Fund of the Diocese of Manchester, the Roman Catholic Church in New Hampshire, is now accepting grant applications for the Spring 2023 review cycle. Qualified organizations should submit a completed application and all required information by close of business by Feb. 22. Information and an online application are available on the Diocesan website at www.catholicnh.org/BCAF or http://bit.ly/bcafgrants.

The BCAF is a not-for-profit organization within the Catholic Church in New Hampshire. It accepts applications from 501(c)(3) organizations in New Hampshire, without regard to religious affiliation, for projects that help people in New Hampshire meet their basic needs. In 2022, the BCAF provided $247,500 in grants to 58 organizations.

The BCAF is operated by a volunteer lay board of directors who make recommendations to the Bishop of Manchester for grants to any organization in New Hampshire whose mission is consistent with the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church and that meets the grant guidelines. The Fund raises money through donations from individuals, businesses, and philanthropic organizations.