Ohio Elks open $24,000 in grants for equipment purchases

By AI, Created 4:54 PM UTC, May 18, 2026, /AGP/ – The Ohio Elks Association is now accepting applications for up to 24 $1,000 grants to help local government agencies and 501(c)3 organizations buy equipment. Applications must go through an Ohio Elks lodge and are due by Aug. 1, 2026.

Why it matters: - The grants can help local agencies and nonprofits buy equipment they need to operate. - The money is targeted at tangible purchases, not services or training costs. - New applicants have an advantage in a competitive review process focused on community impact.

What happened: - The Ohio Elks Association opened applications for its community service grants for 2026. - Up to 24 grants are available statewide. - Each grant is worth $1,000. - Eligible applicants include local governmental agencies and 501(c)3 organizations. - Applications must be submitted through an Ohio Elks lodge.

The details: - The Ohio Elks Association is offering the grants through its 73 member lodges. - Interested agencies are asked to contact their nearest Elks lodge for help preparing and submitting the application. - The application can be reviewed at Ohio Elks Community Service Grants. - A price quote or estimate for the equipment must be included with each application. - The completed application must be submitted by the local Elks lodge. - Jon Felice, Ohio Elks Association Community Service Grant Chairman, said the program is meant to fund equipment that can be “touched and felt,” not services or training expenses. - Felice said all documentation must be emailed by the Elks lodge involved no later than Aug. 1, 2026. - Felice can be reached at 440-376-2337 or Jonathan.felice@airgas.com with questions.

Between the lines: - The lodge submission requirement adds a local screening layer before applications reach the state organization. - The focus on equipment suggests the grants are designed for practical, immediate operational needs. - Favoring new applicants may widen access across communities that have not previously received support.

What’s next: - Eligible agencies should contact their nearest Ohio Elks lodge to start the application process. - Applicants need to secure a price quote or estimate before submission. - Lodges must forward all documentation by the Aug. 1 deadline. - Winners will be chosen through the competitive review process based on community impact.

The bottom line: - Ohio Elks funding is available now for Ohio organizations that need equipment, but the application must move through a local lodge and arrive by Aug. 1, 2026.