Santa Maria Community Services Received Grant

The nonprofit earned $35,000 from the Scripps Howard Fund and WCPO 9 to boost its preschool education program.

Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Philanthropy

Isometric editorial illustration of wooden building blocks and a small plant on a windowsill, representing early education. — Santa Maria Community Services was awarded a $35,000 grant from the Scripps Howard Fund and WCPO 9 to support its preschool education initiative in Cincinnati. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Santa Maria Community Services was awarded a $35,000 grant from the Scripps Howard Fund and WCPO 9. The funding will sustain the organization's Promoting Our Preschoolers initiative.

Why it matters

This grant allows the historic Cincinnati nonprofit to maintain essential educational support for local families. The funding directly supports the continued operation of services that help children prepare for school.

The $35,000 grant serves as a critical injection of capital for the organization founded in 1897. The nonprofit currently operates out of 3301 Warsaw Avenue in Price Hill.

The players

Santa Maria Community Services

This Cincinnati-based nonprofit organization has provided family and community support services since its founding in 1897.

Scripps Howard Fund

This philanthropic organization supports community initiatives and literacy efforts across the United States.

WCPO 9

This is a television station based in Cincinnati that serves the local community through news broadcasting and partnerships.

The details

Santa Maria Community Services provides ongoing aid including food distribution on Tuesdays and Fridays and essential supplies through the Sweet Cheeks Diaper Bank. Case managers also assist families in navigating housing applications and public benefits as the organization prepares for a future expansion into a new community hub.

Santa Maria Community Services was founded in 1897.
The nonprofit distributes food on Tuesdays and Fridays.
The grant receipt was announced on October 9, 2026.

Market Landscape

This grant aligns with the Scripps Howard Fund's stated commitment to local community and childhood literacy. It follows the pattern of the fund's investment in regional organizations that support early childhood development.

Local families in Price Hill will benefit from sustained educational programs and continued access to groceries and essential hygiene supplies. Residents seeking help with housing applications or benefits can continue to engage with the organization at its Warsaw Avenue location.

The takeaway

Nonprofits like Santa Maria play a critical role in supporting family stability through integrated service models. Investing in these organizations helps ensure that essential community resources remain available to those who need them most.