The grant reception at the Governor’s Residence

INDIANAPOLIS — First Lady Karen Pence hosted the sixth reception for grant recipients of the Indiana First Lady’s Charitable Foundation at the Governor’s Residence on Tuesday, Feb. 23, where she awarded $32,000 to 36 organizations and charities that serve Hoosier families and children across the state.

Mad Anthonys Children’s Hope House, Fort Wayne Sexual Assault Treatment Center, both serving Kosciusko and Whitley counties, received grants. RESPECT360, Indiana Alliance of Boys & Girls Clubs also received grants for their services in Whitely and Elkhart counties, respectively.

“When Mike was elected Governor, I was overwhelmed with requests from so many worthy organizations to get involved in their efforts,” said Pence. “However, it quickly became clear that I couldn’t be at every event, nor could I champion every cause. That is why I, along with a team of dedicated board members, started the Indiana First Lady’s Charitable Foundation as a way to shine a light on the organizations across Indiana who lift up our communities and make our state strong.

Pence started the Indiana First Lady’s Charitable Foundation in August of 2013 as a way to recognize organizations and charities across the state. At the inaugural First Lady’s Luncheon held in April 2014, the Foundation awarded its first major grant of $100,000 to the Art Therapy Program at Riley Hospital for Children. Last year’s luncheon recipient, Feeding Indiana’s Hungry, received a grant of $65,000, which supports food banks and food pantries in all 92 counties. Throughout the year, the Foundation will award smaller grants to organizations across the state.

“Whether helping a child develop a love for reading or supporting families in need or encouraging a child to go further in the arts, these organizations are the backbone and the heart of our communities,” said First Lady Karen Pence. “They represent the very best of what it means to be a Hoosier, and we thank them for their service.”

Tuesday’s reception was the sixth reception since her inaugural lunch in April 2014. The third annual First Lady’s Luncheon will be held March 8.

Pence presented a check to each organization ranging from $500 to $1,000 in grant money from the Indiana First Lady’s Charitable Foundation. Representatives from each organization receiving granta were on hand to receive their award and recognition: