The Carl M. Freeman Foundation awarded $142,500 in grants to 17 Sussex County nonprofits and schools through its 2026 FACES Sussex program supporting education, wellness, food access, and community services. (Photo courtesy of Carl M. Freeman Foundation.)

The Carl M. Freeman Foundation has awarded $142,500 in grants to 17 nonprofit organizations and schools across Sussex County through its 2026 FACES Sussex grant program.

The grants support community-based organizations focused on areas including education, food access, health and wellness, youth development, housing stability, literacy, and family services.

According to the foundation, this year’s program received a record 42 applications, with 19 organizations advancing to the semifinalist round before funding decisions were finalized by a volunteer advisory board made up of Sussex County residents.

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Grant awards ranged from $2,500 to $10,000.

Organizations receiving funding this year include Cancer Support Community Delaware, Clothing Our Kids, Community ESL Program, Delmarva Community Wellnet Foundation, Down Syndrome Association of Delaware, Family Promise of Southern Delaware, Read Aloud Delaware, Southern Delaware Orchestra, and several schools and youth organizations throughout Sussex County.

The Howard T. Ennis School received two separate grant awards through the program.

“We are continually inspired by the dedication and compassion of these organizations,” said Michelle Freeman. “FACES is about investing in the people and programs that are making a meaningful difference every day in Sussex County communities. We are proud to support their work and the lasting impact they create.”

Grant recipients and advisory board members were recognized during a celebration and check presentation event held May 21 at the foundation’s office in Selbyville.

The FACES program — Freeman Foundation Assists Communities with Extra Support — focuses on supporting smaller grassroots organizations serving local communities throughout Sussex County.

Sara Uzer

Sara Uzer is a journalist from Sussex County with more than 15 years of experience as a writer, editor, and community advocate.  She started her career in Washington, DC and has lived in Sussex County for the past five years.