The Gilroy Assistance League (GALs) announced its 2023 grant recipients at a luncheon and presentation held April 19 at Eagle Ridge Golf Course.
Recipients were recognized for their efforts on behalf of South Santa Clara County children. During the 2023 grant cycle, GALs awarded a total of $31,939.41 in funds to 12 local organizations.
In attendance at the luncheon were grant recipient representatives, active and honorary Gilroy Assistance League members, and community guests.
“Our grant process is unique, fair and equitable—all 35 members read and vote on each grant application,” Grants Committee Chair Paula Goldsmith said. “Because there were 32 applications this year, it required a significant amount of time from each member, which they gladly gave. We were all so moved at the breadth of need within our community for youth services.”
Gilroy Assistance League annually accepts grant requests that will benefit South Santa Clara County youth organizations, programs and schools. Any youth-related organization or school is eligible to apply for a grant.
“Gilroy Assistance League has a dedicated mission to support the needs of youth in our community,” GALs President Lori Kent said. “Each year, our Home + Garden Tour generates funds that provide grants to deserving youth organizations through our competitive grant cycle. Without the generosity of the community supporting this event, our event sponsors, and the homeowners who graciously open their homes, these grants would not be possible.”
Since 1993, Gilroy Assistance League has awarded more than $392,000 to South Santa Clara Valley youth-service organizations and groups.
The 2023 grant recipients are as follows:
• Neutral Zone: $1,000 for a weekly support group for children affected by divorce/separation.
• One Heart to Another: $1,400 for filled Christmas stockings for youth in foster care.
• Gilroy High School FFA: $6,502.97 for career development events.
• South Valley Middle School: $1,800 for PE equipment.
• Rebekah Children’s Services: $4,092.14 for trauma-informed play therapy supplies.
• One Giving Tree: $2,831.24 for Christmas tree supply bags and Christmas wreaths.
• DreamPower Horsemanship: $2,096 for summer horse-themed reading club for children ages 8-12.
• Jr. Adams Miles Branson Sports: $2,000 for gym equipment and tuition assistance
• Gilroy High School Vet Science: $4,517.06 for animal models for practicing techniques learned.
• Popper Jasper Inc: $1,200 to be able to provide free youth filmmaking summer classes.
• Community Solutions: $2,500 to be used for backpacks with school supplies for 275 youth.
• Gilroy Sportsmen Chef: $2,000 for Fishability, a day set aside for families of individuals with special needs.
