Barton Foundation hands out $35,500, still has $14,500 left to give

In a community with many needs, the Barton Foundation today donated $35,500 to ten different agencies that provide services to the residents of South Lake Tahoe during their annual Philanthropy Day. For the seventh year, the Barton Foundation gave away money raised through their annual fundraising efforts which include the annual Festival of Lights.

All who received donations had to participate in a very competitive process with 21 grant applications. All requests for funds had to meet three criteria: The grant had to address mental health, substance abuse or providing access to health care.

Here are the recipients (agency name, grant amount, person accepting the check):

The Drug Store Project - $4,000 - Lisa Huard - Drug prevention for sixth graders from LTUSD, Zephyr Cove and Diamond Valley.

South Lake Tahoe Police Athletic League (PAL) - $3,000 - Chief Brian Uhler - Provide screened sixth to tenth graders an opportunity to participate and learn new healthy activities alongside positive adult role models.

Tahoe Turning Point - $5,000 - Richard Barna - Counseling and supportive services for ages 12 to 26. Addresses mental / behavior health conditions an substance abuse.

Tahoe Magic - $4,000 - Dr. Mireya Ortega - Addresses unmet dental needs for youth in the community.

Live Violence Free - $5,000 - Jane Flavin - Funding to provide therapy for youth ages 1 1/2 t 16 years-old who have experienced trauma as result of domestic violence, sexual assault or child abuse.

TahoeYouth & Family Services - $5,000 - Christopher Cross - Youth and family counseling program.

NAMI - #1,500 - Jeanne Nelson - Provide signature programs for caregivers and family members supporting loved ones with mental illness.

SOS Outreach - Therese Papandrea - $2,000 - To support at risk youth with an adventure sports and leadership program.

South Tahoe Drug Free Coalition - Hannah Greenstreet - $1,000 - Providing individual locking bags for people with prescription drugs.

A Balanced Life, LLC - Lindsay Simon - $3,200 - Offering a free program that provides coping skills and a support group for teens in South Lake Tahoe.

"There are so many good programs, and for the grant they need to align with our community health needs," said Barton Foundation Executive Director Kindle Craig.

Round two of the money giveaway is going on now, with applications due by November 30, 2015.

This round of funding will focus on community projects focused on building capacity through training, informational products, or events that increase mental health awareness, reduce stigma, and connect patients and their families to programs and services.

To apply for a portion of the $14,500 available, apply for a grant here: Barton Health Grants.