Pittsburgh Mercy Health System
McAuley Ministries
Frequently Asked Questions
Does McAuley Ministries fund only Catholic organizations?
No, all nonprofit organizations addressing a critical community need or opportunity in the Hill District, Uptown, or West Oakland are eligible for funding. However, funded programs must comply with the Ethical and Religious Directives for Catholic Health Care Services.
When can I apply for funding?
You may send a letter of inquiry to the Foundation at any time, however letters are reviewed annually in March by the Board. Major grants are awarded in July; Outreach grants are awarded in March, July, and October.
What size grants are available?
Grant size is determined by the scope of the project and availability of funds. Generally, a major grant will range in size from $50,000 - $200,000. Outreach grants will typically range from $5,000- $25,000.
Why have you chosen to focus only on the Hill District, Uptown, and West Oakland? Certainly, other neighborhoods have critical needs.
We chose to focus on the neighborhoods that have hosted the health care ministries of the Sisters of Mercy. We also recognize that our funds are limited, and by focusing our grantmaking on specific neighborhoods, we believe we will have the potential to assist our neighbors in making positive and sustained improvements in the community.
Will McAuley Ministries fund operating expenses?
Yes. Nonprofit profit organizations are on the front lines, working with individuals and communities to address the issues that impact the health of families and neighborhoods. These organizations must have the internal capacity to be effective. Outreach grants are available for operational support
Will McAuley Ministries fund technology, such as computers?
Yes, we believe that technology provides an opportunity for organizations to increase their efficiency and effectiveness.
Will McAuley Ministries fund capital projects?
Yes, we will consider capital requests. However, McAuley Ministries will evaluate capital projects on a case by case basis to determine if the project is strategically aligned with our priorities.
Will you inform us as to why our proposal was turned down?
We will send you a letter outlining the primary reason your proposal was declined. Please note that we will receive many excellent, well-written proposals recommending important work in the community. Since, we can only fund a small percentage of all requests, our decisions are based on how well your need fits with our current focus and the degree of community impact.
Whom should I contact for grant requests and other questions?
Please contact Michele Rone Cooper, Executive Director, at 412-578-6223 or at mrcooper@mercy.pmhs.org.
