For the past three weeks, Beech Companies, based in North Philadelphia on Cecil B. Moore Avenue, has given away five $1,000 grants. The money goes directly to nonprofits.
"They'll be receiving a check in three or four days, so they'll have money in hand," said CEO Ken Scott.
The group of organizations runs commercial development, community revitalization and financial programs and has given out millions of dollars in grants to nonprofits over the years. So when the pandemic hit, they said they wanted to help.
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"So we wanted to step up now of course, in this emergency situation and make sure that we reach out to these smaller organizations that a lot of time do not have tax ID numbers to be identified to receive grants from the larger organizations or the government," Scott explained. "You know, the food pantries, direct outreach or those working on homelessness."
So far, Beech has given away $15,000. Grantees include Grands As Parents, Philabundance, Bebashi, Dignity Housing and the Real Deal Food Ministry. Scott says they are continuing to accept applications for grants, and will continue to give out grants throughout the COVID-19 crisis. Applications are open at their website or by emailing beechcompanies@gmail.com.