The Escondido Community Foundation (ECF) is accepting proposals for projects that foster meaningful connections between people and animals.
Donor Name: Escondido Community Foundation
State: California
City: Escondido
Type of Grant: Grant
Deadline: 02/02/2026
Size of the Grant: $10,000 to $100,000
Grant Duration: 1 Year
Details:
The mission of Escondido Community Foundation (ECF) is to improve the quality of life in Escondido by meeting emerging needs through:
- Encouraging and increasing responsible and effective philanthropy,
- Building a community endowment,
- Providing funds annually to organizations and causes, and
- Giving the community a vehicle for legacy planning and cash gifts that will benefit the residents of Escondido annually and in perpetuity.
Escondido Community Foundation invite qualified nonprofits serving Escondido residents to submit a Letter of Intent for projects that foster meaningful connections between people and animals. Research shows that human-animal bonds provide significant therapeutic, developmental and educational benefits for children and adults. These interactions may involve companion, service or therapy animals as well as wildlife conservation programs that create a lasting positive impact on the community.
Focus Areas
ECF welcomes applications that support the human-animal bond and may include, but are not limited to, the following examples:
- Therapeutic and Support Services – Equine-assisted therapy programs for those with physical, mental or emotional challenge; Animal therapy in healthcare facilities, senior centers and nursing homes; Emotional support programs for veterans and trauma survivors; Service animal programs for specific conditions and disabilities; Pet loss grief counseling and support services for community members.
- Community Welfare and Education – Pet adoption programs, animal rescues and wildlife rehabilitation centers; Educational programs, especially for children, about animal care, conservation, and responsible pet ownership; Low-cost veterinary services (routine, emergency, and end-of-life care), Pet food and supplies, basic dog training and behavioral support programs for income qualified pet owners.
- Infrastructure and Community Resources – Improvements to existing dog parks; Working dog programs which support local law enforcement and search and rescue.
Funding Information
ECF will accept proposals in a range of $10,000 up to $35,000.
Grant Period
Grants are made for one year.
Eligibility Criteria
Grants must be administered by a 501(c)3 public charity, or an organization that is fiscally sponsored by a 501(c)3, a school or other government agency. ECF does not make grants to supporting organizations or private, non-operating foundations. If an organization is using a fiscal sponsor, a cooperative relationship between the two must be clearly demonstrated.
For more information, visit San Diego Foundation.
