First-ever Stone County Community Fund grants help local students thrive
WIGGINS, MS (June 26, 2025) – Stone County nonprofits BackPack Boosters and Blessings in a Backpack have received the first-ever grants from the Stone County Community Fund (SCCF), an affiliate of the Gulf Coast Community Foundation (GCCF). A total of $2,500 was awarded.
Stone County BackPack Boosters will use its funding to provide more than 250 Stone County students with new backpacks and school supplies during the annual Love 4 Kids Giveaway on July 19, 11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., at the Ferris B. O’Neal Senior Center in Wiggins. The program, now in its eighth year, helps prepare students for the school year while easing the financial burden on families.
“This grant is more than just funding; it’s an investment in our children’s futures,” said Brittany Harris, founding director of BackPack Boosters. “With this support, we’re not just filling backpacks; we’re filling hearts with hope, confidence and the tools to succeed.”
Blessings in a Backpack – Stone County Chapter provides weekend meals to 126 elementary students in Stone County. While part of a national nonprofit, the Stone County chapter operates entirely on local support. The SCCF grant will help cover the cost of ready-to-eat meals packed and delivered weekly by volunteers.
“Growing up, we didn’t have much, but we never went without food. It’s heartbreaking that so many children do,” said Amber Plummer, the program’s local director. “I’m grateful for the chance to help fill that gap and for the people and organizations that make sure kids don’t go to bed hungry. This grant allows us to continue meeting that need as the new school year begins.”
Jody Miles, SCCF Committee member and GCCF Board of Directors member, said, “These two organizations are doing incredible work, and it’s an honor to help them do even more for local students.”
“The SCCF grants show the power of community giving,” said Dr. Christen Duhé, GCCF president and executive director. “They also reflect the growing reach of the Stone County Community Fund in supporting programs that meet real needs.”
To donate to the fund, visit www.mygccf.com/f3Nw. Every dollar stays in Stone County to fund local grants. GCCF will match 50 cents per dollar up to $100,000. Gifts of $1,000 or more may qualify for a 25 percent state tax credit through the Endow Mississippi Tax Credit Program. For more information, email info@mgccf.org or call 228-897-4841.
About the Stone County Community Fund
The Stone County Community Fund, the first affiliate of the Gulf Coast Community Foundation (GCCF), was created to significantly enhance the quality of life across Stone County by addressing pressing needs in the community through the awarding of grants. The goal is for the Stone County community to raise $200,000 by 2027. GCCF will match 50 percent of donations up to $100,000. Tax-deductible donations can be made at www.mygccf.com/f3Nw.
About Gulf Coast Community Foundation
Gulf Coast Community Foundation is a nonprofit public charity that has been serving the people of South Mississippi since 1989. GCCF’s primary mission is to increase philanthropy by assisting donors in establishing endowments and legacy giving plans, making grants to worthy causes, and providing leadership in response to the community’s changing needs. Over the years, GCCF has been a leader in addressing the most pressing needs in the community, from disaster relief and recovery to supporting education and child welfare initiatives. To learn more about GCCF and its work in the community, visit mgccf.org.