Sen. Cooney Announces $1 Million in State Grants for Local Nonprofits Amid Federal Funding Cuts

State Sen. Jeremy Cooney on Friday announced a new $1 million grant program aimed at supporting Rochester-area nonprofits facing growing demand and dwindling federal support.

Sen. Cooney (2nd from left) announced $1M Roc Grants funding

The “Reinvesting in Organizations that Care” (ROC) Grants will provide capital funding to local organizations that serve vulnerable populations, Cooney said at a press conference joined by regional nonprofit leaders. The grants are intended to offset funding gaps caused by recent threats of federal cuts to social programs.

“From New Americans and older adults to reproductive healthcare and anti-poverty advocacy, there are many organizations performing lifesaving work every day in Rochester and Monroe County,” said Cooney, a Democrat representing Rochester. “While the federal government is cutting vital funding to community-based organizations, we are stepping up to meet the needs of Rochesterians.”

The program will award grants to nonprofits and community-based organizations for capital expenses. Applications are due by July 4, and selected recipients will be announced later this summer.

Simeon Banister, president and CEO of the Rochester Area Community Foundation, said the funding arrives at a critical time.

“We’re hearing every day from local nonprofits that the demand for services is growing — while resources are shrinking,” Banister said. “This funding comes at a critical time, and we applaud Senator Cooney for recognizing that public investment is essential to keeping these vital programs going.”

Leaders from the Council of Agency Executives, United Way of Greater Rochester and the Finger Lakes, and the Greater Rochester Health Foundation also expressed support for the program.

Organizations can apply for the ROC Grants by visiting rocsenator.com/rocgrants.