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Applications are now open for the United Church of Christ’s 2026 Justice and Local Church Ministries grants, which aim to support the work and mission of local congregations. The deadline for applications is September 15.
Several changes have been made to the grant programs this year. The CASA (Church Assessment, Support and Advancement) grant has increased its funding, with recipients eligible for $25,000 per year in both the first and second years. In years three and four, grantees can receive an additional $25,000 annually if they secure matching funds. The application process for this grant will now include requirements related to the Marks for Faithful and Vital Local Churches from the Manual on Local Church.
A new Operational Support Grant has also been introduced as a Rapid Response option for churches facing unexpected one-time expenses. Local churches may apply for up to $5,000 in support, with priority given to those addressing unforeseen costs associated with caring for vulnerable individuals in their communities. These grants are reviewed monthly.
The Love of Church Rapid Response Grant offers between $1,000 and $5,000 to UCC local churches that need help with sudden financial burdens or urgent outreach needs. The final award depends on available funding.
The Neighbors in Need Fund provides grants ranging from $1,000 to $10,000 for projects focused on justice and compassion across the United States. Supported activities include direct service initiatives, community organizing efforts aimed at systemic change, and cultural programs that can be replicated within other congregations.
The New and Renewing Churches Grant is administered by the United Church Board for Ministerial Assistance (UCBMA), part of the Pension Boards. This program supports small- to mid-sized churches by helping them cover essential health-related expenses—medical, vision, and dental—for lead pastors.
The CASA New and Rebirthing Church Grants continue to offer financial support to new or renewing ministries working toward transformative faith communities within the UCC framework. For these grants starting in 2026, grantees must submit quarterly financial statements during years three and four; funding during those years is contingent upon raising matching funds equal to or less than $25,000 per year.
Applications are currently available online at UCC Program Grants: https://www.ucc.org/grants/
Rev. Carmarion Andersen-Harvey will begin serving as Minister for Congregational Leadership in September and will work directly with CASA grantees. Christine Lucarelli joins Faith INFO as Minister for Granting and Scholarships; she manages all aspects of grant administration and is available to assist applicants at lucarellic@ucc.org.
"Helping to facilitate these grants for congregations are the Rev. Carmarion Andersen-Harvey and Christine Lucarelli."
"Andersen-Harvey will start in September as the new Minister for Congregational Leadership, working with Church Assessment, Support, and Advancement (CASA) grantees."
"Lucarelli joins Faith INFO as the Minister for Granting and Scholarships. She administrates the process of all grants and scholarships we distribute and is available to support anyone in the process."
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