Cordeiro Foundation Awards $19,400 to Support Fire Relief, Veteran Food Security, and Youth Wellness Programs
The Anthony F. Cordeiro Charitable Foundation has distributed $19,400 to five Southeastern Massachusetts nonprofits, addressing critical community needs including fire recovery support, veteran food insecurity, and mental health programs for vulnerable populations.
The Anthony F. Cordeiro Charitable Foundation has awarded grants totaling $19,400 to five nonprofit organizations in Southeastern Massachusetts, continuing its mission to support community resources including health services, food security, and shelter. This latest funding round brings the foundation's total contributions to over $275,000 since its establishment in 2018, demonstrating sustained commitment to regional philanthropy.
Two organizations received $2,500 each for fire relief efforts at Gabriel House. The United Way of Greater Fall River will provide program support including Red Cross response and mental health services, while the Firefighter Wives Association will offer individual assistance with clothing, food, and personal items for affected residents. This coordinated response addresses immediate needs following the tragic incident in Fall River.
The Veterans Association of Bristol County received $5,000 to ensure three months of uninterrupted food security through its pantry program, which distributes 20,000 pounds of food monthly to over 500 veterans and their families. The funding will also support the Harvest for Heroes initiative, ensuring fresh produce is included in monthly food distributions. This addresses significant food insecurity among veteran populations in the region.
Gnome Surf was awarded $4,900 to purchase equipment for its virtual SurFit Social-Emotional Wellness Program, which serves neurodivergent, physically disabled, and medically complex youth unable to access in-person programming. The program teaches mindfulness, movement-based emotional regulation, and connection skills through interactive remote sessions. Community Connections, Inc. received $4,500 to fund a free six-week outdoor yoga and mindfulness series for 50-100 participants in Fall River, focusing on those experiencing social isolation or limited access to wellness resources.
Funding for these grants comes from individual donations and proceeds from the foundation's annual events, including the 20th Annual Golf Invitational held at Lake of Isles Country Club with support from sponsors including Rockland Trust as title sponsor. The foundation is currently accepting applications for its second 2025 funding round, with guidelines available for download here through December 31, 2025.