This week, McPherson County Community Foundation (MCCF) spent time in Canton, Galva, and McPherson as part of its community celebrations. At each event, foundation staff connected with residents, shared more about the foundation’s impact, and enjoyed snacks from local caterers.
During the celebrations, MCCF presented each community with a $2,500 award to support local projects.
The Canton and Galva Site Councils received their communities’ “Dream” grants to replace the blessing boxes in each town. The current boxes were hand-built by Site Council volunteers and, over time, have needed frequent repairs to stay weather-resistant. The new boxes are designed to be a more permanent solution that requires less maintenance. Volunteers noted that the doors on the existing boxes have often been blown open or damaged during windy weather.
In addition to funding the new boxes, the special grants review committee approved the full $2,500 for each community to help purchase supplies and keep the boxes stocked. This funding will allow the Site Councils to provide nonperishable food and basic care items as resources allow.
In McPherson, McPherson Main Street received the full $2,500 Dream grant. The funding will allow the organization to purchase equipment to host outdoor movie nights on the plaza. According to Main Street, the events will create a fun, family-friendly activity that brings people together and encourages the community to spend time downtown.
The Foundation will close its 25th anniversary tour with one more celebration and grant presentation in Moundridge on March 31.
