The only actual free website for free grant applications is grants.gov.. you have to research the grants there as well. There is a free website called, www.grantwritersonline.com, that will help you write your grant by question and answer sessions. It is also possible to ask a non-profit organization (you can call your local chamber of commerce for listings), and talk to them about who writes their grants. Usually, because of financial situations they have a staff member, or a volunteer who writes for them. I volunteered for a non-profit organization for years and our writers took on a few pro-bono cases for people who simply called and had a significant need. Most non-profits are willing to help people for free, hince the non-profit statis. Of course, you can do it yourself, just remember, be clear, concise, and honest. Don't give unnecessary information, back-up everything with legitimate paperwork, and propose your need as fact, not opinion. Afterall, the monies that you are asking for is our tax money. If you propose a real need, they actually want to help. Last but not least, check your local library for help, and or volunteers. Check with your local college for a volunteer, students always need service hours for credit. Call your local court and ask for a list of lawyers and attorneys that take or OWE pro-bono cases. Contact your local chapter of Legal Aide. When submitting your application, send it registered! Enclose letters from doctors, lawyers, and organizations that back-up your claims, or that can vouch for your character. Please do not send letters from dear aunt Martha. It is out there, now go and get it!
Just in case, there is a web site that only charges 2.95 S&H, and gives you a cd that has all applications, and cuts through the bullshit for you so that you can write the grant in a hurry. www.freegrantnetwork.com
(This company has been checked out thoroughly and is the only website that stands up to it's claim. If you have 2.95, its definately the way to go! Good-Luck everybody!!!!!!!
