Community organizations across Simcoe County have until Nov. 25 to apply for county funding that will provide up to $100,000 a year for three years to programs supporting residents experiencing poverty.
The County of Simcoe opened its 2026 call for applications for the Social and Community Investment Fund (SCIF) on Nov. 4, according to a County of Simcoe news release. Beginning in 2027, the SCIF Standard Grant will provide successful applicants with up to $100,000 annually for three years, giving organizations more stability to plan and deliver local programs.
New focus on food security
Citing financial pressures on low-income households, the county says it is putting greater emphasis on improving access to food, along with other urgent basic needs. The county recently developed a Regional Household Hunger Prevention Plan, which will serve as the three-year strategic investment strategy guiding SCIF Standard Grant funding from 2027 to 2029.
Under the plan, programs that address food insecurity will receive additional consideration, as will other urgent basic needs. However, organizations delivering other eligible poverty reduction programs and services are also encouraged to apply.
Applicants can review application guidelines, eligibility requirements and supporting materials at simcoe.ca/SCIF. Applications will be reviewed and scored against established criteria, and funding recommendations will be presented to county council for consideration and approval.
Part of broader poverty reduction work
The county says SCIF funding complements a range of its other poverty reduction efforts and investments that strengthen community well-being across the region, including programs that help prevent homelessness, improve housing stability and connect residents with essential supports.
The County of Simcoe is composed of 16 member municipalities and provides paramedic and social services to the separated cities of Barrie and Orillia.
