The city of Goodyear has officially opened the application window for its annual Community Funding Program, offering a financial lifeline to local nonprofits providing human and social services.
Applications for the fiscal year 2026-2027 grant cycle are being accepted through Thursday, April 30. The city has allocated $214,400 in this year's budget to support organizations that tackle issues ranging from food insecurity and domestic violence to youth crisis intervention and senior care.
To help prospective applicants navigate the process, the city will host an optional pre-application webinar at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, April 8 via Microsoft Teams.
The program has a history of fueling significant community milestones. Last year, the city distributed grants ranging from $1,500 to $30,000 to a diverse group of recipients.
Among the fiscal year 2025-2026 beneficiaries was the New Life Center, which used its resources to support a major expansion. The shelter opened six new "villas"—specialized suites for survivors of domestic and sexual violence who arrive without children. The expansion increased the center’s capacity by 100 people annually.
“It’s not just about providing a safe space,” said Kate Thone, CEO of New Life Center. “It’s about showing survivors that they are loved, supported, and cared for as they begin the next chapter of their lives.”
The funding comes at a time of heightened need in the West Valley. The Agua Fria Food & Clothing Bank, a repeat recipient which received $25,000 last year, reported a 15% increase in families seeking emergency food assistance in 2025.
Executive Director Leanne Leonard noted that rising costs have pushed many first-time clients to seek help. The organization’s Daily Lunch Sacks program for unsheltered neighbors hit record numbers last year, serving 1,700 more meals than the previous year.
Other highlights from last year’s funding include:
Sun Health ($2,000): Supported the Goodyear Memory Café, which launched in October. The café provides a social outlet for residents living with dementia and their caregivers to combat isolation.
Catitude Arts ($5,000): Led by 2024 Citizen of the Year Bonnie Lewis, the organization’s "Follow Your Art Junior" program provides free summer mentorship for teens, helping them develop portfolios and professional artistic skills.
Sounds of Autism ($9,250): Facilitated the designation of Goodyear as a "Unified Responder Community," a collaborative effort between police, fire, schools, and nonprofits to create a more adaptive and safe environment for autistic residents.
Eligible nonprofits must provide services to Goodyear residents that do not duplicate existing city programs. While faith-based organizations are allowed to apply, grant funds cannot be used for religious activities such as proselytizing or worship.
Following the April 30 deadline, a subcommittee of city council members will evaluate the proposals. Final awards are expected to be approved by the City Council with checks distributed in late summer.
Meet James James Goldmeer joined Independent Newsmedia, Inc., USA, in July 2024, starting their career as a reporter in Goodyear and Litchfield Park.
Community: James grew up in the West Valley, calling Avondale home and going to school in Glendale and Peoria. Returning to the community after university, James plans to get involved in everything arts and culture, and civil rights.
Education: Northern Arizona University a bachelor's degree in Journalism, a certificate in Professional Communications, with a minor in English.
Random Fact: James spent half a year as an intern for the Arizona House of Representatives communication team, working with legislators to inform the public through press releases and social media.
Hobbies: James collects postcards and old books, reads memoirs and attends local jazz shows.
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