Pettinaro charity at Delaware Community Foundation grants $600K to local nonprofits 

WILMINGTON – The Verino and Midge Pettinaro Charitable Fund at the Delaware Community Foundation (DCF) is accepting applications for the Pettinaro Supports Delaware grant program, with a deadline of May 1.

The DCF welcomes applications for initiatives that address children’s needs, community development, education, health, and community insecurities. Nonprofits may apply on behalf of a project, program, or general operating request.

“As a family, we are deeply grateful for the opportunity to give back to the state we love,” Cindy Pettinaro said. “Delaware has given so much to us, and through this fund, we’re proud to help support those who need it most. It is truly an honor to serve and invest in the wellbeing of our community.”

Nonprofit organizations must apply through the DCF portal before May 1, 2025 to receive up to $50,000 in funds. Grantees will be announced in summer 2025. There are two annual grant cycles for Pettinaro Supports Delaware Communities, one in April and another in August.

“The Pettinaro family’s dedication to Delaware is remarkable,” Stuart Comstock-Gay, president and CEO of the DCF, said. “We are proud to help the Verino and Midge Pettinaro Charitable Fund expand its reach to create lasting impact for nonprofits across the state. With ongoing changes at the federal level, generosity toward Delaware’s nonprofit community is more vital than ever.”

Past grant recipients from the fund include Delaware Children’s Theatre, Sunday Breakfast Mission, and West End Neighborhood House. In 2021, the fund granted $100,000 to the Food Bank of Delaware, providing 300,000 meals.