The Barrow Community Foundation is pleased to announce the recipients of the Q2 2026 Barrow Together grants, awarding $50,000 to local organizations working to address two critical community priorities: housing insecurity and early literacy.
Barrow Together was created to unite community members, donors, nonprofits, and agencies around the issues that matter most in Barrow County. Following the success of the inaugural grant cycle, the Foundation’s Board of Directors chose to continue investing in housing insecurity and early literacy after reviewing community surveys, donor focus groups, local school system data, and information provided by Family Connection and United Way.
This grant cycle attracted 14 applications, each reflecting innovative and impactful approaches to serving Barrow County residents. The Foundation was encouraged by the quality of proposals received and grateful for the dedication demonstrated by every applicant. While funding was limited, each organization contributed valuable ideas and solutions for addressing community needs.
Investing in Housing Stability
Housing insecurity continues to impact individuals and families throughout Barrow County. Three organizations received funding to help residents remain safely housed and move toward long-term stability.
Peace Place — $13,000
Peace Place received $13,000 to convert existing transitional apartments into a four-unit domestic violence shelter in Barrow County. As the organization’s primary shelter relocates to Jackson County, this project will help ensure that survivors of domestic violence continue to have access to safe emergency shelter and support services close to home.
Habitat for Humanity — $10,000
Habitat for Humanity was awarded $10,000 to support its Emergency Home Repair Program, which currently has a waiting list of low-income homeowners needing critical repairs. By addressing urgent safety and accessibility concerns, the program helps residents remain in their homes while preserving affordable housing within the community.
Barbara Shedd Prosperity Project — $18,500
The Barbara Shedd Prosperity Project received $18,500 to launch its Housing Stability Bridge Program. The program will provide eviction prevention assistance and housing stabilization services while helping participants address barriers to long-term self-sufficiency through individualized case management and support.
Supporting Early Literacy
Strong literacy skills are foundational to academic achievement and lifelong success. Two organizations received funding to create meaningful learning opportunities for children and families.
Wimberly’s Roots — $5,000
Wimberly’s Roots was awarded $5,000 to support Read, Stir, Grow, a program designed to extend learning during school breaks by incorporating literacy instruction into cooking and gardening activities. The hands-on approach helps children continue developing reading and language skills while engaged in fun, enriching experiences.
Adult Literacy Barrow — $3,500
Adult Literacy Barrow received $3,500 to support PACT Time (Parent and Child Together) literacy activities for children whose parents are enrolled in GED, English language, and citizenship classes. The program promotes literacy development across generations by creating opportunities for parents and children to learn together.
Continuing Community-Driven Impact
The Barrow Together initiative reflects the Barrow Community Foundation’s commitment to listening to the community and investing in solutions that create lasting impact. By continuing to focus on housing insecurity and early literacy, the Foundation and its donors are helping local organizations strengthen families, expand opportunities, and improve quality of life throughout Barrow County.
We congratulate this round’s grant recipients and thank all 14 applicants for their commitment to serving our community. We are also grateful to the donors whose generosity makes Barrow Together possible.
Together, we are creating a stronger Barrow County—one investment, one family, and one opportunity at a time.
