Renfro Trust Brick-and-Mortar Grants Available for Rural United Methodist Congregations

Every year, the Southeastern Jurisdiction of The United Methodist Church awards grants from the Renfro Trust Fund to local churches. The application is now open for churches located in areas of less than 10,000 population to apply for a ‘brick and mortar’ grant of up to $5,000. 

About the Renfro Trust Fund

Under provisions of the Renfro Trust Fund, the income from the Fund is to be used to establish and support United Methodist churches in rural areas of the United States within the Southeastern Jurisdiction of The United Methodist Church. The term “rural areas” shall be interpreted to mean towns of less than 10,000, villages, and open country.

Grants will be considered for projects involving new or existing church buildings only, not for parsonages. Repairs required to maintain the structural integrity or soundness of the church building may be included as part of a request. Major equipment directly related to the overall project may be included in a request. Grants will not be awarded for general maintenance of a church building or equipment. Grants for debt reduction will not be considered.

The maximum amount for each grant is $5,000. Funds are awarded as grants, not loans. 

Apply

The deadline to receive grant applications at the Conference office is August 1, 2023. Applications should be sent via email to Rev. Scott Parrish  (scott.parrish@ngumc.net) or by mail to Rev. Scott Parrish, 1700 Century Circle NE, Atlanta, GA 30345.

Click here to download the guidelines and application.