CFNJ: RSI Foundation Grant is sponsored by Community Foundation of New Jersey. Provides grants ranging from $2,500 to $25,000 for community-driven initiatives addressing pressing needs in New Jersey.

RSI Foundation Grant | Community Foundation of New Jersey Investing in the well-being of Rahway communities Created from the merger between Columbia Bank and RSI Bank in 2022, the RSI Foundation’s purpose is to continue the tradition of community giving that was critical to RSI Bank.

RSI Foundation works together with Columbia Bank, Columbia Bank Foundation, local organizations, and other charitable foundations to make a difference in the communities formerly served by RSI Bank. Since 2022, RSI has awarded nearly $600,000 in grants to support clinics and medical screenings, education scholarships, food pantry services, housing, theater and arts programs, and more. Our philanthropic work focuses on two areas: 1.

Partnering with marginalized populations . We work with groups helping those who can’t meet their basic needs due to physical, mental, economic, or social circumstances or constraints. 2.

Improving neighborhood quality of life. We support organizations, projects, and initiatives that contribute to the health, happiness, and well-being of people who live within the community. The 2025 grant cycle is currently closed.

Application Review & Grant Cycle Organizations and programs or projects must meet all of the criteria below: Is a tax-exempt charitable organization Is in good standing with the IRS Has been in operation for at least two years (must have a 501(c)(3) for two years and be actively running programs related to its mission during that period) Establishes a need for private financial support Demonstrates impact in the Foundation’s geographic area of focus (Rahway and/or the surrounding communities in Union and Middlesex counties) Has direct relevance to the Foundation’s focus areas We do not financially support political organizations, candidates running for office, or individuals; fraternal or labor organizations; endowment funds; benefit fundraisers such as event sponsorships, dinner tickets, or tricky tray events; sports booster clubs; general operating funding (indirect costs that support the operations of the applicant organization); or event sponsorships and conferences.

Application evaluation criteria Applications will be reviewed based on, but not limited to, the following criteria: 1.

Specific Community Need Addresses a specific need in the community and falls within the Foundation’s areas of focus Offers a clear, measurable impact or benefit to the community as a whole or a special segment of the population Is achievable with the resources (staff/volunteers, financial, history of programs) of the organization 4.

Realistic Expectations Outlines a realistic goal, timeline, and reasonable budget All organizations submitting a grant request will be asked to upload a project budget, in addition to other documentation. Grant awards typically range between $2,500 – $25,000. Larger or smaller grant amounts may be considered by the Board, but are limited based on available funding.

The 2025 grant cycle is closed. Check back in spring 2026 for details about the next grant cycle. Please direct all inquiries to Lydia Gracey at info@cfnj.

org . We proudly partner with organizations throughout the Rahway community, and the surrounding areas, to improve neighborhoods and elevate quality of life. With its grant award, St.

Joseph Social Service Center in Elizabeth shared that it’s serving communities with dignity and making a difference: “… we offer a wide range of services such as food assistance, adult educational programs, prescription assistance, mental health counseling, and healthy lifestyles workshops. We are so grateful for the Foundation’s support to sustain this critical program, which has been in high demand.

” RSI’s grant funding is also helping to provide access to free clothing for students in a welcoming environment at John Adams Middle School, support families experiencing homelessness who are guests at Family Promise Union County, and empower students to reach their educational dreams through the Union County College Foundation scholarship campaign.

“This initiative is more than just about clothing — it’s about fostering a sense of belonging and self-confidence among our students. Thanks to your generosity, we are able to offer them a space where they can 'shop' for the items they need without any barriers. We are excited to see the positive impact this new addition will have on our school, and we look forward to sharing stories of the lives it will touch.

Your partnership means the world to us, and we are deeply appreciative of your commitment to supporting our students. ” “This funding makes a direct impact on families in crisis. Through the RSI Foundation's generosity, we will be able to provide a comprehensive direct response to families at risk or experiencing homelessness.

... We are extremely proud to serve guest families [by] providing emergency shelter; [offering] housing stability screenings; preventing episodes of homelessness; and engaging volunteers to provide financial advisement, healthy and delicious meals, educational tutoring, and so much more. ” “Many of our students face challenges that seem unsurmountable for degree completion.

Your support allows students to prioritize education, increase on-time graduation rates, and begin a path toward a more hopeful future. ... Financial assistance not only lifts up the student, but it has a ripple effect on families and communities.

” RSI Foundation Board of Directors