Frances Saunders Foundation
Preselected recipients only
Frances Saunders Foundation is a private foundation in Merced, California. In tax year 2025 it gave $36,800 in 15 grants; the typical grant was $1,500 and the largest $10,000. It only gives to organizations it selects itself and does not accept unsolicited applications.
From its IRS Form 990-PF for tax year 2025.
- Grants paid, 2025$36,800
- Number of grants15
- Typical grant$1,500
- Largest grant$10,000
- Assets$503,970
- New grantees27%
Giving in 2025 was up from $23,650 the year before.
27% of its 2025 grantees had not received a grant from it the year before, a mix of repeat and new grantees.
Giving by year
| Tax year | Grants paid | Number of grants | Assets |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | $40,500 | 13 | $486,898 |
| 2024 | $23,650 | 11 | $488,985 |
| 2025 | $36,800 | 15 | $503,970 |
How to apply
Frances Saunders Foundation says in its IRS filing that it only makes contributions to preselected organizations, so unsolicited applications are unlikely to be considered. Organizations it funds are usually invited.
What Frances Saunders Foundation funds
Where it gives
Its grants went to recipients in 7 states, the most to California.
| State | Grants | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| California | 6 | $20,500 |
| Virginia | 2 | $6,000 |
| Alaska | 2 | $3,800 |
| Kansas | 1 | $3,000 |
| Florida | 2 | $2,500 |
| Maryland | 1 | $500 |
| New York | 1 | $500 |
Grants paid in 2025
| Recipient | Purpose | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Alpha Pregnancy | Support for pro-life education | $10,000 |
| Live Action | Support for pro-life | $5,000 |
| United for Life of Merced County | Support for pro-life education | $4,000 |
| Unbound | Critical needs program | $3,000 |
| Knom Radio Missions | Support for faith-based radio | $2,800 |
| St Patrick's Parish | Support for the poor and needy | $2,500 |
| California Right to Life | Support for pro life education | $2,000 |
| Priests for Life | Pro-life education/services | $1,500 |
| JMJ Maternity Homes | Support for home for pregnant women | $1,500 |
| Catholic Bishop of Northern Alaska | Support for religious education/trng | $1,000 |
| Food for the Poor | Support for the poor and needy | $1,000 |
| Students for Life of America | Support for pro life education | $1,000 |
| Anugraha Act Inc | Education of needy children | $500 |
| Catholic Near East Welfare Assoc Cnewa | Support for the poor and needy | $500 |
| World Villages for Children | Support for poor and needy | $500 |
Officers and trustees
- Cyril Lawrence
- Marcia Hall
Questions people ask
Does Frances Saunders Foundation accept grant applications?
No. Its IRS filing says it only makes contributions to preselected organizations.
How much does Frances Saunders Foundation give?
$36,800 in tax year 2025, across 15 grants, with a typical grant of $1,500.
Who runs Frances Saunders Foundation?
Its 2025 filing lists Cyril Lawrence (Director) and Marcia Hall (Director).
What does Frances Saunders Foundation fund?
Based on its grants, mainly education, faith communities and human services.