NHCE Invests More Than $6.5 Million in Grants Addressing Student Aid, Disaster Preparedness

Wilmington, N.C., August 1, 2024 – The New Hanover Community Endowment (NHCE) will invest more than $6.5 million in nine grants to improve workforce pathways, increase disaster preparedness, and support arts, healthcare, and education programs.

The largest grant supports the Forward Fund (TFF) and addresses gaps in our workforce pathways through short-term loans for students engaged in high-yield training programs in the skilled trades, technology, and healthcare. The majority of the TFF grant – $2.5 million out of $3 million – will go directly to students to pay for enrollment, tuition, and program fees, along with life expenses. The remaining $500,000 will provide operating support.

“We’re excited to be part of the Forward Fund’s innovative approach to supporting our students,” said Lakesha McDay, executive vice president of programs and operations at NHCE. “Finances are a major challenge for many seeking continued education. This program will reduce financial barriers and give all students the opportunity to pursue fulfilling, high-wage careers.”

NHCE is also investing in the Red Cross to establish the first North Carolina-based American Red Cross Community Adaptation Program (CAP). As extreme weather worsens, Red Cross CAP teams are working with local partners in areas with higher disaster risk and chronic social issues to expand access to nutritious food, healthcare, and affordable housing. Already established in 18 other communities around the country, the program aims to holistically build community resilience before disasters.

“Better preparing New Hanover County for hurricanes and other disasters is just one way we can help every citizen in the county,” McDay said. “We’re proud to support the Red Cross in launching North Carolina’s first CAP and to help create a safer community.”

The remaining grants provide emergency radios for New Hanover County residents, fund grassroots nonprofit arts organizations, and support education programs ranging from preserving Wilmington’s history to helping pregnant and parenting teens.

This slate of grants is part of NHCE’s ongoing funding process to invest in transformational change in New Hanover County. NHCE encourages organizations to share ideas and programming updates with its network officers to identify partnership opportunities. For more information, visit www.nhcendowment.org/grants.

“New Hanover Community Endowment strives to be a partner to organizations, not just a funder,” McDay said. “We’re eager to collaborate on solutions as we look to invest in building a better community.”

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