December 24, 2025 – United Way of St. Johns and Putnam Counties is proud to announce the recipients of its inaugural Strategic Grant Fund, a new funding opportunity designed to strengthen smaller, grassroots nonprofit organizations making measurable differences in the lives of residents across the region.
The Strategic Grant Fund provides financial support to organizations that may not have access to United Way of St. Johns and Putnam Counties’ traditional Community Impact funding. By investing in local initiatives, United Way of St. Johns and Putnam Counties empowers community-driven solutions and expands access to essential resources for those who need them most.
Through a competitive review process, $38,000 in funding was awarded to organizations serving St. Johns County, Putnam County, and both counties collectively. Grant awards ranged from $2,000 to $7,500, supporting initiatives across four key impact areas: Housing Stability, Financial Security, Food Insecurity, and Education.
St. Johns County Recipients
- Jimmy Jam Community Outreach Inc. – $2,000
- Recovery RX Corp – $2,000
- Living Stone Outreach – $3,000
Putnam County Recipients
- South Putnam Christian Service Center – $4,000
- Putnam First Cancer Fund – $2,000
- Interlachen Soup Kitchen Ministries Inc. – $4,000
- Feed the Need of Putnam County – $7,500
- Putnam County Bread of Life, Inc. – $7,500
- God's Kitchen – $2,000
Serving Both Counties
- Epic-Cure Inc. – $4,000
“Through the Strategic Grant Fund, we’re investing in the power of local organizations who know their communities best,” said Carl Cricco, CEO of United Way of St. Johns and Putnam Counties. “These smaller nonprofits are on the frontlines of change, and this fund will help amplify their impact where it’s needed most.”
The fund supports programmatic initiatives, direct services, and capacity-building efforts directly tied to the approved impact areas. Eligible recipients were recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations serving residents of St. Johns and/or Putnam Counties.
The Strategic Grant Fund reflects United Way’s commitment to building stronger, healthier, and more resilient communities by amplifying local solutions that improve quality of life.
To learn more about the Strategic Grant Fund and other United Way initiatives, visit www.unitedway-sjc.org.
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About United Way of St. Johns and Putnam Counties
United Way of St. Johns and Putnam Counties is dedicated to improving lives by mobilizing the caring power of communities to advance the common good. Serving both St. Johns and Putnam Counties, the organization focuses on four key areas: community resiliency, educational opportunity, financial security, and health. Through strategic partnerships and community support, United Way ensures that individuals and families have access to the resources they need to thrive.
Media Contact:
Anna Crum, Director of Marketing and Communications
United Way of St. Johns and Putnam Counties
904-829-9721 | anna.crum@unitedway-sjc.org
Photo: Brandon Oliver, Palatka Daily News