By RONDA GRAFF

MCFF

McCOOK - Often, the bigger community projects are what catch our attention. From the renovation and expansion of the YMCA to the development of the ballparks, housing and retail space, this notoriety is well deserved.

But the smaller projects are just as needed and deserve our support as well. 

This past spring, the McCook Community Foundation Fund (MCFF) provided a grant to Hillcrest Nursing Home to assist in the replacement of flooring at the facility. The original flooring in the dining room had become worn, uneven and difficult to sanitize effectively. The new flooring is durable, non-slip and healthcare-grade materials to provide a welcoming and comfortable environment for residents, staff and visitors.

The dining room at Hillcrest is used as more than just a place to eat meals. The space is a central gathering space for residents at Hillcrest, used to connect on a daily basis, celebrate milestones and to simply be together as a community.

MCFF is proud to support Hillcrest and these life-long residents of McCook and Red Willow County who have shaped the community into what we know today. The grant was made in honor of Andy and Geri Anderson and their support of MCFF years ago.

The Hillcrest grant was one of seven grants awarded during the spring 2026 grant cycle. The next MCFF grant deadline is Thursday, Oct. 1 with funds distributed in November. Applications are due via email by 5 p.m. or must have an Oct. 1 postmark. 

The spring 2026 grants also continued financial support for the YMCA and ballpark projects plus nearly $48,000 in grants, including:

• Norris Institute, Burr Oak Canyon Symposium, Oct. 2026; In honor of the Arvene and Neva Myers family
• 6th Floor/ArtBank, docents; In honor of the Walt and Jean Sehnert Challenge
• MEDC/City of McCook (St. Catherine’s project)
• Beautify McCook (Downtown Lights match)
• Community Kitchen Recipe as Remedy
• City of McCook for Airport Lobby Updates

Twice a year, the McCook Community Foundation Fund distributes grants to local non-profit organizations and other charitable programs, which meet MCFF’s mission: Inspire investment in the quality of life for the people of Southwest Nebraska. MCFF continually focuses on the people of McCook and Southwest Nebraska to ensure a vibrant, inclusive community.

Grant applications are available online throughout the year at www.mccookfoundation.org. Applications may be submitted online or through the mail, but must be postmarked October 1. An entire list of grants given by MCFF since the first grant in 2003 is also available on the MCFF website. McCook Community Foundation Fund is an affiliated fund of the Nebraska Community Foundation.