By Dave Cucchiara Communications & Program Associate Federal legislation passed this summer significantly restructured the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, with changes taking effect in recent months that have reduced or eliminated benefits for many recipients. Additionally, the ongoing federal government shutdown disrupted SNAP payments in November, leaving approximately 42 million Americans without expected food assistance. These circumstances have created unprecedented…
By Justin Kiczek President In July 1776, with British troops amassing in New York and his fellow patriots poised to declare independence, George Washington acknowledged the very real and fatal possibility of failure: “The fate of unborn millions will now depend, under God, on the courage and conduct of this army … We have, therefore, to resolve to conquer or…
By Dave Cucchiara Communications & Program Associate Communities flourish when they embrace the richness that immigrant populations bring, from the vibrant arts to the iconic food traditions that help strengthen the social fabric. But the impact of immigration extends far beyond culture. Studies show that immigrants play a vital role in driving economic growth, entrepreneurship, and innovation. According to the…
By Justin Kiczek President A few weeks ago, I was invited by the Council of New Jersey Grantmakers to speak at their spring conference on the topic of “Philanthropy and Civic Engagement.” I was joining five other speakers in a kickoff “Spark” session, in which each of us would, using a short speech, “ignite” ideas on the conference theme. Faced…
By Dave Cucchiara Communications & Program Associate The F. M. Kirby Foundation Board of Directors approved 116 grants totaling $8,937,600 in the first half of 2025 to support nonprofit organizations dedicated to strengthening and enriching our communities. This total reflects grants awarded in 2025 and multi-year commitments. In all, 67 grants included general operating support and 59 grants were made…
By Dave Cucchiara Communications & Program Associate Routine aspects of life that are often overlooked by the general population can pose considerable challenges for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). From accessing basic healthcare services to securing suitable housing to finding consistent employment, neurodivergent individuals must often navigate unique societal challenges. The families who support these individuals, too, shoulder…
By Dave Cucchiara Communications & Program Associate Nature offers us more than just beauty — it nurtures our well-being, fuels our creativity, and provides the essential resources that sustain life. Yet, beyond what we take from the natural world, there is a growing need to give back, ensuring that future generations inherit a planet as rich and vibrant as the…
By David Cucchiara Communications & Program Associate The F. M. Kirby Foundation Board of Directors announced 266 grants totaling $16,819,450 were made in 2024 to nonprofit organizations working to increase the strength and vitality of their communities. A total of 150 grants provided general operating support, while 108 grants were awarded to organizations that have partnered with the Foundation for…
The F. M. Kirby Foundation is pleased to celebrate 20 years of continuous partnership with the Regional Plan Association (RPA), an independent non-profit civic organization. Since 1929, RPA has released four long-term plans to guide the growth and development of the New York-New Jersey-Connecticut Metropolitan Area. These initiatives are credited with enhancing the region’s economic vitality, improving environmental sustainability, and…
By Dave Cucchiara Communications & Program Associate Budget cuts, economic recessions, and shifting priorities have gutted arts education from our public schools over the last decade. From performing arts like band, orchestra, and theater to visual arts like photography, drawing, and ceramics, this coursework is critical to fostering creativity and inspiring the next generation to reshape American art. The F.…