First National Bank believes everyone deserves reliable access to nutritious food. Through the Dream First Community Grant, we’re investing in organizations developing practical and lasting solutions to strengthen food security in the communities we serve.
One eligible nonprofit organization, municipality, or school will receive a $5,000 grant to launch a new initiative, expand a promising program, or strengthen an existing service.
Applications are open
September 15 through October 31, 2026.
Let's Dig In, Together.
Who May Apply?
Applicants must:
- Be a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, municipality, or school.
- Serve residents within First National Bank’s footprint.
- Lincoln, Knox, Waldo, Hancock, Penobscot & Washington Counties in Maine.
- Demonstrate financial responsibility.
- Submit a completed application and project budget.
- Use grant funds exclusively for food security-related programming. Funds are not to be used for general operating expenses.
What Types of Projects Are Eligible?
Examples include, but are not limited to:
- Mobile food distribution
- Backpack and weekend meal programs
- School and youth nutrition initiatives
- Crockpot distribution program
- Senior meal programs
- Community gardens
- Fresh produce access
- Community refrigerators
- Farm-to-food pantry partnerships
- Nutrition education
- Programs addressing rural food access
- Innovative pilot projects focused on reducing hunger
Grant Timeline
September 15, 2026– Applications Open
October 31, 2026 – Application Deadline
November 2026 – Application Review Period
December 2026 – Recipient Announced