The Foundation for Developmental Disabilities Announces Recipients for $200,000 Special Gift Funds

The Foundation for Developmental Disabilities is excited to announce the recipients of its Special Gift Funds RFP Cycle XI Capital Funding, aimed at empowering organizations dedicated to improving the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs).

As part of our commitment to fostering inclusive communities, the Foundation’s Board of Directors has approved capital funding totaling $200,000. FDD is thrilled to introduce two esteemed capital funding recipients for 2023: Blissful Seeds and Merakey. Each organization will receive a generous grant of $100,000 to further their invaluable work. This initiative seeks to support programs that enhance the quality of life for individuals with IDDs in San Diego.

Left to right: Merakey and Blissful Seeds -- The Foundation for Developmental Disabilities was pleased to receive proposals from both organizations in March. FDD's Program Committee unanimously approved funding, totaling $200,000, with each recipient receiving $100,000.

Blissful Seeds is an organization known for its unwavering dedication to providing support for individuals with IDDs and has been selected as one of the grant recipients. The $100,000 in capital funding from the Foundation will help Blissful Seeds expand into a new brick-and-mortar store located in Poway, enabling them to increase their reach. Additionally, the grant will support the organization’s efforts to enhance its vocational training programs, empowering individuals with IDDs with the necessary skills for meaningful employment and increased independence.

Merakey, a leading provider of developmental and behavioral health services is the second grant recipient selected for the Foundation’s $100,000 in capital funding. Recognized for its comprehensive range of programs and person-centered care, Merakey has consistently demonstrated a commitment to promoting inclusion and empowering individuals with developmental disabilities. Through the grant, Merakey plans to establish a Mystic Lobster Roll franchise in San Diego which will be supported by the Mystic Lobster Roll parent company. This initiative will offer individuals with developmental disabilities access to training and employment opportunities.

The Foundation’s Special Gifts capital funding for 2023 represents a significant opportunity for organizations dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of individuals with IDDs. By supporting Blissful Seeds and Merakey, the Foundation aims to empower these organizations to expand their reach and opportunities to improve the quality of life for the community we serve.

ABOUT THE SPECIAL GIFT FUNDS PROGRAM

The Foundation for Developmental Disabilities (FDD) generates and distributes funds to innovative programs that enhance the quality of life for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs) in San Diego and Imperial Counties. FDD offers grants of up to $100,000 for capital, social enterprise, and start-up funding to businesses and organizations that provide training and employment opportunities to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs) in San Diego and Imperial Counties. Some of the organizations that we have funded through our Special Gifts Program in the past five years include Mountain Shadows, Noah Homes, Options for All, Outside the Lens, and St. Madeleine Sophie's Center.

Learn more about the Foundation’s Special Gift Fund.