Impact Stories

Thanks to a grant from the community foundation, the Downtown Hays Development Corporation was able to purchase an enclosed food trailer to utilize during community events in the area. This trailer opens many opportunities for the organization and benefits event-goers.

Each year, an average of 125 children in Ellis County must be rescued from severe abuse, neglect or abandonment. Project Suitcase hopes to provide comfort and support to these children.

A grant from the community foundation provided funding for children removed from their home and taken to foster care with the gift of a duffle bag containing pajamas, underwear, a blanket, stuffed animal, toiletries, flashlight, small toys, snacks, and a McDonald's meal certificate.

A large bright orange pedal cart has delivered lots of smiles and memories for residents of Via Christi and their "grandfriends," at Learning Cross Preschool.

A grant from the community foundation purchased a four-person pedal cart for Learning Cross Preschool to share with Via Christi's senior residents. The children and seniors enjoy sharing stories and pedaling together.

"When learning how to deal with emotions, it can be messy, so having a calm space to learn in is so crucial," said Kaci Nichols, Stockton Grade School Counselor.

A grant was awarded to USD 271 to support the new Tiger Read Regulation Room at Stockton Grade School.

Biology students at Trego Community High School received new microscopes from a grant enabling them to see bacteria and other small structures that were not visible using prior 30-year old equipment.

"My students, a fellow science teacher, and I greatly appreciate the opportunity that this grant has provided," said James Burk, Biology teacher.