Merchants Bonding Company Foundation grants reach 19 organizations
November 5, 2026
From accessible dance programs to a growing summer camp, the Merchants Bonding Company Foundation is making a difference in many ways this fall.
The Foundation recently completed its second grant-giving cycle of 2026, awarding over $100,000 in grants to 19 nonprofit organizations focused on arts and culture, children and education, and medical care. This cycle’s charitable giving supports organizations working to improve quality of life for children, families, and the communities they call home. It builds on the Foundation’s earlier 2026 giving, including improvements at Grey's Lake Park.
Easterseals Iowa Camp Sunnyside: A new multi-year commitment
The Foundation made a new multi-year commitment to Easterseals Iowa to fun capital improvements and the expansion of Camp Sunnyside, a camp for people with disabilities and their families.
2026 grant-giving highlights
Additional giving highlights include:
- Building the infrastructure Ballet Des Moines needs to bring its accessible Ballet Without Barriers programming to more communities.
- Purchasing VR headsets and software so teens at Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Iowa can explore interactive learning and enrichment programs.
- Providing legal representation for children in high-conflict custody and family court cases through the Iowa Center for Children’s Justice’s financial assistance program.
- Helping people secure housing through Joppa by covering move-in costs like rental and utility deposits, which can be the final barrier to a stable home.
- Supplying hygiene products, food, and other essentials to students through iJAG (Iowa Jobs for America’s Graduates).
- Offering financial assistance so more families can take part in Camp Fire Heart of Iowa programs.
- Supporting training, travel, and client assistance for Healthy Families America families through Lutheran Services in Iowa.
- Helping Zealots Youth Sports Program give underserved youth access to athletics, health support, and mentorship that build belonging and connection.
- Keeping rents affordable for residents at risk of housing instability through Anawim Housing.
- Supporting the renovation and build-out of WayPoint Resources’ new facility.
- Funding improvements to the Welcome, Gather, and Grow areas at the Des Moines Botanical Garden as part of a multi-year commitment.
- Funding capital improvements and expansion at the Great Outdoors Foundation’s Sleepy Hollow as part of a multi-year commitment.
- Providing scholarships and general support through the Iowa College Foundation.
- Continuing annual support for Blank Children’s Hospital, Dorothy’s House, United Way of Central Iowa, Variety – the Children’s Charity of Iowa, and The Surety & Fidelity Association of America.
An important aspect of the Foundation's giving strategy is supporting organizations that matter to Merchants Bonding associates and agent partners.
Merchants Bonding Matching Gift Program
In addition to Foundation grants, associates can extend their impact through the Merchants Matching Gift Program, which matches donations of up to $400 to eligible nonprofits they're passionate about.
The Merchants Bonding Company Foundation remains dedicated to supporting organizations that create positive, lasting change and help communities thrive for future generations. Learn more about the Foundation's giving.