The Maine Community Foundation’s Equity Fund is accepting applications from nonprofits for project and capacity-building grants that address lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer issues and needs in Maine.

The fund helps strengthen LGBTQ+ organizations and supports initiatives that work toward inclusive, diverse, prejudice-free communities for the LGBTQ+ population and all people in Maine.

Grant awards of up to $7,500 are available, with priority given to projects and organizations that serve people in rural and underserved communities; support LGBTQ+ families, youth or elders; increase access to health care or reduce health disparities; reduce anti-LGBTQ+ violence; support social and cultural community-building activities; and provide education to promote respect and understanding of LGBTQ+ people.

The deadline for grant applications is Sept. 15. An online application, guidelines and list of 2020 grants are available at mainecf.org.

Last year’s grantees included Outright Lewiston Auburn, to continue ongoing support of LGBTQ+ youth, families, and schools in Western Maine.

For more information, contact Senior Program Officer Gloria Aponte C. at [email protected] or 207-761-2440.

To learn more about the foundation, visit mainecf.org.