This year’s grant season was one of our most most competitive, with neighborhood projects from 13 churches totaling over $100,000 requested. The Commission on Reconciliation awarded the following congregations funding for the period beginning December 1st. Here’s what they have planned for the year ahead:
Brown Memorial Park Avenue ($3,500): Continues the Brown Memorial Tutoring Program, which gives free one-on-one literacy tutoring to Baltimore City elementary students. The grant covers snacks, the end-of-year family celebration, and student yearbooks.
First Presbyterian Church of Howard County ($10,000): Launches CommunitySing!, a new program where community singers perform a major choral work together, with Vivaldi’s Gloria on December 13, 2026 and Mozart’s Requiem on June 6, 2027. Funds cover accompanists, soloists, director stipends, and marketing support, with the goal of reaching 150 participants and raising money for community partners.
Govans Presbyterian Church ($10,000): Continues the Food and Racial Justice initiatives by funding an outreach coordinator, split about 80/20 between staff and operating costs. The coordinator will support one to three initiatives chosen through a discernment process with community partners.
Madison Avenue Presbyterian Church ($10,000): Starts Seeds of Justice, a youth agriculture and literacy program for 20 youth with 16 biweekly sessions from March through October 2027. Funds cover farming kits, growing and produce-safety supplies, and a Coppin State intern who will evaluate the program. The youth will distribute their harvest to seniors and neighbors in Reservoir Hill, Park Heights, and Central West Baltimore.
Towson Presbyterian Church ($5,000): Continues Casting Our Nets to build partnerships with the West Towson and Southland Hills neighborhood associations and the Towson Presbyterian Preschool. It also adds a little free library and pantry on the manse lawn, with a May 1 dedication event tied to World Labyrinth Day.
First Presbyterian Church of Westminster ($8,000): Continues Inclusive Pathways, a program for youth ages 14-21 with and without disabilities to build peer relationships. Funds cover event costs, promotional materials, and volunteer training for a program that grew from 10 to 19 participants in its second year.
