ABOUT USThe Maureen Elkins Fund for Families, Inc was established in 2017, and launched in 2018, in honor of Maureen Elkins who passed away in 2015. Maureen was a loving wife, mother to eight children, grandmother to seven grandchildren (and counting), and a beloved nurse for children with special needs. She was also a foster mother for almost 30 years and had many children benefit from her loving care and guidance. Her sudden and tragic passing inspired family and friends alike to gather together and form this Fund as an ongoing tribute to her dedication to children and families needing a helping hand.
Many across Staten Island and beyond, who had the privilege of knowing Maureen in life, wished to pay it forward. Using the initial flood of donations received after her passing, a brand-new playground was built at the pre-school for children with special needs where she worked for more than 25 years. The playground was dedicated in her honor and currently serves the children she doted on daily. The scope of the Maureen Elkins Fund will be to carry forward her legacy of ensuring children with developmental disabilities have every resource and opportunity to succeed and enjoy a fulfilling life. For questions please call: 646-319-4797. The Maureen Elkins Fund for Families, Inc is hosting the second fundraiser on October 11, 2019 and is also beginning to accept nominations for grants from its Fund. The Fund aims to continue Maureen Elkin’s legacy of compassion and generosity, by distributing grants and/or donations to families as well as organizations that support the developmental disability community. The focus will be to allow those with special needs to enjoy life to the fullest. To be eligible, a family or organization must be based on Staten Island, have at least one special needs child or family member for which funding is requested, and complete the online application form. Applicants can self-nominate or be nominated by others in the community. All applications will be reviewed by the Fund’s Board of Directors and will be notified of grant status within 9-12 weeks of application submittal. Families who receive funding will be able to use it for extra services, respite care, and fun, family-centric activities they may not otherwise have a chance to enjoy. Grants to organizations will be made to support the developmental disabilities community on Staten Island. The Fund will host Fundraisers and collect contributions through each year, soliciting money and professional time donations for allocation through the Grant process. The fund is is a 501(c)(3) and donations are tax deductible. |
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