Our Grant Program
Supporting the organizations that strengthen Southern Chester County.
A Festival With Purpose
The Mushroom Festival was built with one guiding principle: to celebrate agriculture while giving back to the community that has supported our mushroom growers for generations. What began as a local celebration has grown into a nationally recognized event, but its mission has remained the same, strengthening the region through meaningful, year-round impact.
Every year, proceeds from the Festival are reinvested directly back into Southern Chester County through our Grants Program. These funds help support a wide range of local organizations providing essential services in emergency response, youth development, food security, education, arts and culture, and veteran support. This is not just a weekend celebration, it is an ongoing investment in the people and organizations that keep the community strong.
Community Impact Statistics
Over $1.6 million awarded to local nonprofits! With over $173,000 awarded in 2026 alone! Dozens of nonprofit organizations supported each year across Southern Chester County!
2026 Grant Applications are now CLOSED. Thank you to everyone who applied!
We can’t wait to see you for 2027!
The 41st Annual Mushroom Festival isn’t just about food, fun, and fungi, it’s about strengthening our Southern Chester County community.
Local artists, educators, nonprofits, and community organizations are invited to apply for grant funding to support projects that promote education, creativity, and local culture.
Important Dates
Application Deadline: March 31, 2026 at 5:00 PM (EST) — No exceptions.
Festival Dates: September 12, 2026 (10:00 AM) – September 13, 2026 (4:00 PM)
Grant Awards Announced: By April 17, 2026
Grant Reception: May 2026 (Date TBD — attendance required)
Application Requirements
Your Grant Application Packet must include one copy of each of the following:
- Completed Mushroom Festival Grant Application
- Most recent 501(c)(3) ruling letter
(Organizations without 501(c)(3) status are not eligible, with the exception of Fire Companies.) - Current Board of Directors list
- Brief description of your organization and its purpose
- Most recently completed Form 990, 990-Z, or an explanation if one was not filed
Do not send any additional paperwork.
Incomplete applications will not move forward in the review process.
Grant Guidelines
- Maximum grant award: $5,000
- Only one application per organization
- Be specific about your funding request. General budget requests will not be considered.
- Funds must be used strictly for the approved project.
Grant Recipient Requirements
- A representative must attend the Grant Reception in May 2026 (or the award will be rescinded).
- All funds must be spent on the project outlined in the application.
- Organizations that do not meet these requirements will not be eligible for 2027 funding.
Have questions? Email: mushroomfestivalgrants@gmail.com
Ready to apply? Visit:
https://www.eventeny.com/events/applications/application/?id=8165
Let’s continue building something meaningful for Southern Chester County.
2026 Grant Beneficiaries
Southern Chester County EMS-MEDIC 94
Provides advanced emergency medical services and 911 response care across Southern Chester County.
Camp Dreamcatcher, Inc.
A nonprofit offering support, education, and camp experiences for children and families impacted by HIV/AIDS.
Kennett Square Police Department
Local law enforcement serving and protecting the Kennett Square community.
Oxford Arts Alliance
A community arts organization promoting creativity through classes, exhibits, and cultural programming.
After-The-Bell
Provides academic enrichment and after-school support programs for students in the Kennett area.
Canine Partners For Life
Trains service and assistance dogs to support individuals with disabilities and enhance independence.
Kennett Fire Company No. 1
Volunteer fire company providing fire protection, rescue services, and emergency response.
Unionville Community Fair, Inc.
Hosts the annual Unionville Community Fair celebrating agriculture, community, and local traditions.
The Garage Community & Youth Center
A youth-focused nonprofit providing mentoring, activities, and safe community space for teens.
Max’s Kicks For Kids
Delivers new shoes to children in need to promote dignity, confidence, and wellness.
Friends Home in Kennett
A nonprofit senior living community providing housing, care, and support for older adults.
Family Promise of Southern Chester County
Helps families experiencing homelessness achieve stability through shelter, meals, and case management.
Meals on Wheels of Chester County
Delivers nutritious meals and wellness checks to homebound seniors across Chester County.
URA Sports (Urban Affairs Coalition – URA Program)
Provides youth development, sports programs, and community engagement opportunities for underserved youth.
Oxford Area Neighborhood Services Center
A local food pantry and support center helping families with food access and basic needs.
Arts Holding Hands and Hearts (AHHAH)
Uses music, arts, and performance programs to support individuals with special needs and disabilities.
Casa Guanajuato Kennett Square
A cultural organization supporting the Hispanic community through education, resources, and cultural programming.
Kennett Underground Railroad Center
Preserves and shares local Underground Railroad history through education and community programs.
Avondale Fire Company
Volunteer fire company providing fire protection, rescue services, and emergency response.
YoungMoms
Supports young mothers through education, mentoring, and resources for family stability.
New London Counseling Center (NLCC)
Provides accessible mental health counseling and support services for individuals, couples, and families in the community.
The Barn at Spring Brook Farm
A therapeutic farm program offering equine-assisted services and life skills support for individuals with disabilities.
Chester County Connect Care
Coordinates community resources and support services to improve health outcomes for Chester County residents.
Swayne-Campbell-Testa VFW Post 5467
Veterans organization supporting service members through advocacy, community programs, and veteran assistance.
West Grove Fire Company
Volunteer fire company providing fire protection, rescue services, and emergency response.
Kennett Area Community Service (KACS)
Offers food assistance, housing support, and emergency services for individuals and families in need.
Union Fire Company #1
Provides fire protection, emergency response, and rescue services for the Unionville area community.
Carasmark
Creative marketing and branding organization supporting local businesses and community initiatives.
A Child’s Light
Supports children and families impacted by trauma through counseling, advocacy, and healing services.
ALS United Mid-Atlantic
Provides care services, advocacy, and research support for individuals and families affected by ALS.
LCH Health and Community Services
Provides accessible medical, dental, and behavioral health care to individuals and families in Southern Chester County.
Kennett Library
A community hub offering educational resources, programming, technology access, and lifelong learning opportunities.
Treetops Kitty Café
A nonprofit cat café supporting animal rescue, adoption, and humane education programs.
Good Samaritan Services
Provides shelter, housing assistance, and supportive services for individuals and families experiencing homelessness.
Reins of Life
Offers equine-assisted therapy programs supporting physical, emotional, and cognitive development.
The Domestic Violence Center of Chester County
Provides emergency shelter, advocacy, and support services for survivors of domestic violence.
Mighty Writers
Empowers youth through writing, literacy programs, and educational support in underserved communities.
Cherry Blossom Vacations Inc
A travel organization supporting accessible and community-based travel experiences.
The Gathering Place at Kennett
A welcoming community center offering support, connection, and resources for individuals in need.
Kennett Masonic Lodge No. 475
A fraternal organization supporting charitable work and community service initiatives in the Kennett area.
Po-Mar-Lin Fire Company
Volunteer fire company providing fire protection, rescue services, and emergency response for the Pocopson, Marshallton, and London Grove area.
Unite for HER
Provides wellness, education, and integrative therapies for individuals affected by breast and ovarian cancers.
Friends of Anson B. Nixon Park
Supports the preservation, improvement, and programming of Anson B. Nixon Park in Kennett Square.
Housing Partnership of Chester County
Develops affordable housing opportunities and provides housing counseling and support services.
Longwood Fire Company
Volunteer fire company delivering fire suppression, rescue services, and emergency response in the Longwood area.
Handi-Crafters Inc
Provides employment and vocational training opportunities for individuals with disabilities.
Bournelyf Special Camp
A summer camp offering inclusive recreational experiences for children and adults with disabilities.
Kennett Collaborative
A nonprofit dedicated to strengthening downtown Kennett Square through events, beautification, and community programming.
