New Jersey and Vermont: The Turrell Fund

Turrell Fund Grants for Early Childhood Programs in New Jersey and Vermont

A stronger start for children begins with strong community programs. The Turrell Fund supports nonprofit organizations serving children and families in Vermont and four New Jersey counties. Its funding places particular emphasis on the earliest years of life.

If your organization is expanding access to early childhood services, supporting families, or working to improve the systems young children rely on, explore whether your project fits the fund’s priorities.

What does the Turrell Fund support?

The Turrell Fund considers projects serving children and families, with special attention to prenatal through age three and programs for infants and toddlers. Its interests also include family support, direct services, arts and music education, and efforts to improve policies and systems affecting children.

A grant supports an approved nonprofit project or organization. It is not an individual scholarship for purchasing a child care course. The fund decides which activities and budget expenses it will support.

Who may be eligible?

Your organization may be a fit if it:

• Has 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status.
• Serves children and families in Vermont or in Essex, Hudson, Passaic, or Union County, New Jersey.
• Can show a clear need, a well-defined plan, and measurable results.
• Aligns its proposal with the Turrell Fund’s current funding priorities.

The fund gives particular consideration to work benefiting very young children and families facing barriers to quality services. Review its complete guidelines before preparing a request.

How do you apply?

Start with the Turrell Fund’s application and eligibility guidance. Check the website for the current submission windows and instructions.

If your organization has not received a Turrell Fund regular-cycle grant in the past five years, you must submit a letter of inquiry before you can apply for a grant. Eligible organizations then follow the fund’s online application process. The fund generally requires at least one year between applications, regardless of the outcome.

Build a stronger early learning team with ChildCareEd

A grant proposal works best when your organization can explain how its staff will carry out the project. ChildCareEd’s staff training options help program leaders assign professional development and track team progress. You can also explore ChildCareEd subscriptions when planning ongoing training.

Considering staff development in your project budget? Ask the Turrell Fund whether the specific training expense is allowable before including it in your request. Purchasing ChildCareEd training does not establish grant eligibility or guarantee reimbursement.

Review the Turrell Fund’s application guidelines to see whether your organization and project are a match.