What is a Building Fund Grant? Information Sheet
The Diocese created the Building Fund Grant to solve two issues. One is that our insurance provider is going to be visiting all our churches in the Summer of 2025. He is going to be looking at all our church buildings to decide if they are still “insurable”. Buildings may not be able to keep their full coverage building insurance if they have serious issues with their roofs, windows, or foundations. So, this fund was created to help repair our churches with serious issues.
The second issue is that because of the growing prevalence of “convection-related storms” resulting in flooding, hail, and wind damage, our insurance deductible has gone up from $1000 to $2500. To keep our deductible from going up even more, it has been suggested that we don’t put in an insurance claim for a repair that will cost less than $5,000. So, this fund was also created to partner with churches to help fund repairs that fall under the insurance threshold, and to assist churches that could need help paying their deductible.
What can a Building Fund Grant be used for?
· In 2025, the goal is to help fund projects for churches that have buildings with pressing issues with their roofs, windows or foundations.
· In 2025, a grant can also be requested by churches who can’t afford a repair that costs less than the insurance window, and by churches that can’t afford to pay their full deductible for a larger repair.
· If there are funds remaining after these needs are met, churches with pressing safety issues may be considered.
Who can apply?
· Any church of the Diocese that is in good standing can apply for a grant.
· Any church that applies will need to send documentation that demonstrates that they have financial need.
· There are two funds: One for parishes and missions that are supported by the National Church Block Grant, and one for churches and missions that are self-supporting.
How to apply. Grant Application
· Email or mail a copy of a Building Fund Application Form along with supporting documents (including specific details outlining why your congregation would be unable to afford to make the repair (or deductible) without help, a copy of your current year’s budget, a copy of your financial report for last year, and the amount (if any) that your congregation has been able to raise toward the repair).
IMPORTANT: If you have any trouble with the application, or don’t have the requested supporting documentation, please call our office at 605-494-2020 and we can help gather the needed information. We don’t want difficulties with the application process to keep a church from applying!