Applying for grants is like joining a competition to win the prize.
The United States Department of Housing and Urban Development awards grants only to organizations and groups. It is a very competitive process. When asking for grants for senior housing, it is necessary that you present evidence that the project you are proposing is devoted to benefit the senior population in your area.
Instructions
1. Compose a cover letter. The cover letter should include an overview of your organization and your knowledge about the Department of Housing and Urban Development's provision to the elderly. Express why you believe that partnership with your organization will promote the agency's mission. The ideal cover letter is one page.
2. State your objective. You may be asking for grants to renovate a 25-unit apartment that houses 35 seniors. Your objective should be about upgrading and providing a safe dwelling place for those seniors. Include the timeline of the project.
3. State the need. The apartment might have been built 50 years ago and it is becoming a hazard to the residents. There might be an electrical or plumbing problem that became a regular occurrence. If the problem will not be taken care of for the next year, it may cause severe damage or danger to the occupants.
4. Present the budget. Do not just ask for a certain amount. Break down the expenses. Provide the cost of the materials, labor, permits, transportations, or any other expenses needed for renovation. You may also want to include the expenses for temporary relocation of the residents while the project is going on. The amount you are requesting should not be more than what the project needs.
5. Provide information about your organization. Give a brief history and a listing of all services you provide to the community. Provide a complete list of the board members. Show the staffs' credentials. If you have volunteers, specify their duties. Send the evidence of your tax-exempt status, articles of incorporation and a copy of your organization's annual operating expenses. You may also provide a list of your other benefactors. You have a better chance of getting the grants if the funder sees that you are well recognized and well supported by other institutions.
6. Write a strong concluding statement. Explain why funding the project is important. Tell the funder about the long-term benefit of the project to the present and future occupants of the senior housing. You can also express your desire to have a continuous partnership with the agency.
Tags: your organization, cover letter, asking grants, Department Housing, Department Housing Urban, Housing Urban
