Fine-tuning Eligibility Criteria #3

In previous grant cycles, priority was given to organizations that were not part of the Food Bank’s network and organizations that were led by and serving communities of color. However, this created a barrier for one organization that, after applying, later became a partner and was deemed ineligible to receive the funds.

Based on feedback, the eligibility criteria was changed to allow any organization led by and primarily serving communities of color, regardless of partnership status, to be eligible to apply for and receive CRF grant funds. In addition, some flexibility was introduced for organizations who did not meet the 50% board and staff leadership diversity threshold. These organizations had the option of convening a CRF project steering committee, led by people of color to oversee the work being supported by the CRF.

2022 CRF Eligibility Criteria

Eligible organizations/projects must be based in Maine and contribute to a more just and equitable food system.

Grassroots, community-led organizations and coalitions, fiscally sponsored, and collaborative projects are encouraged to apply. Individuals are not eligible to receive grant funds. Previous grantees are encouraged to apply.

To ensure that CRF grant funds are redistributed to organizations led by and primarily working with communities of color, immigrant, and refugee communities, the organization must meet one of the following:

50% or more of the organization’s leadership staff or program directors are from communities of color

50% of board members of governing decision-making roles are from communities of color

50% of activists and on-the-ground community change-makers are from communities of color

If an organization does not meet the organizational criteria of being led by communities of color, a steering committee led by members of communities of color may suffice.