O’Dell Women’s Center Doubles Grantmaking to $1 Million, Expands Eligibility to All of Hampden County
The O'Dell Women's Center Foundation is investing $1,000,000 in programs and services that support low-income women and girls in Hampden County, Massachusetts. The O’Dell Women’s Center Foundation is doubling our grantmaking to reflect the urgency of need and our commitment to supporting women and girls.
Through this funding opportunity, the Foundation will support and partner with nonprofit organizations working to address immediate needs, remove barriers to success, and create pathways to long-term economic stability for women and girls.
Grant Information
Total Funding Available: $1,000,000
Grant Award Range: $20,000–$100,000
Average Grant Award: $50,000
Eligible Applicants: Nonprofit organizations serving low-income women and girls in Hampden County, Massachusetts
Application Opens: July 13, 2026
Application Closes: Sept 18, 2026
Notifications: Nov. 13, 2026
Distributions will be made before December 31, 2026
Join Our Virtual Information Session
Organizations interested in applying are encouraged to attend our virtual information session to learn more about eligibility requirements, funding priorities, the application, and the grant review process.
The information session hosted Thursday, July 23, 2026, includes an overview of the application process and provided an opportunity for applicants to ask questions. Here is a LINK to the recording of the session. (The video will be available after 7/25/26)
Funding Priorities
The O'Dell Women's Center Foundation invests in programs that help women build stable, secure, and fulfilling lives. Our grantmaking reflects the belief that women need both access to opportunity and support during times of challenge and therefore supports two funding priorities. To apply use this LINK to access grant application and the LINKto the budget template.
1) Education, Career Development, and Economic Mobility - We support programs that help women achieve financial stability through education, career advancement, and skill-building opportunities. Examples of eligible activities include:
Higher education access and completion
Financial education
Vocational training and credentialing
Workforce development and job readiness
Career coaching and mentorship
Women's and girls' sports
Resource navigation
Barrier removal related to education and employment
Pathways to livable-wage employment
2) Critical and Basic Needs - We support programs and services that help women and their families meet essential needs and maintain stability during challenging circumstances. Examples of eligible activities include:
Food access and distribution
Housing stability and shelter supports
Essential supplies and clothing
Physical and behavioral health supports
Childcare and family stabilization services
Transportation to essential services
Immigrant support services
Services to women impacted by domestic violence
Other urgent supports that help households function safely
Our Commitment - The O'Dell Women's Center Foundation is committed to supporting both immediate stability and long-term opportunity for women and girls throughout Hampden County. By investing in programs that address critical needs while expanding access to education and career advancement, we aim to help women build stronger futures for themselves, their families, and their communities.