PATERSON, N.J. — Jan. 13, 2026 — The Andre Sayegh Civic Association, in partnership with Wellpoint New Jersey, announce the launch of the Paterson Impact Grant Program, a new community investment initiative designed to support local nonprofit organizations, community-based groups and community leaders working to strengthen Paterson and surrounding communities.

The program will be formally introduced during a press conference on Tuesday, Jan. 13, at 11:00 a.m. at the Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church, which is a historic church visited by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., located at the corner of Auburn and Governor Streets in Paterson, NJ. The timing of the announcement coincides with the lead-up to Martin Luther King Jr. Day and reflects Dr. King’s enduring belief in service as a pathway to justice, dignity, health and community well-being.

Made possible through funding from Wellpoint New Jersey, the Paterson Impact Grant Program will provide rolling microgrants ranging from $500 to $5,000 to support innovative, grassroots projects that:

Grant funding may be used for social, cultural, recreational or other community-focused initiatives that positively impact Paterson residents. The program reflects a shared commitment to supporting community-led efforts and recognizing the important role service and connection play in overall mental and emotional well-being.

“Dr. King taught us that lasting change begins with service and shared responsibility,” said Dr. Patrick Fox, president of Wellpoint New Jersey. “This partnership puts that belief into action by investing in people and organizations who truly understand their communities and are best positioned to address local needs, helping drive meaningful solutions that support better health and improve lives.”

Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, community-based organizations and faith-based organizations working to improve the Paterson community. Grant funds may not be used for purely religious activities, campaigns for elected office, or capital expenses such as acquiring real property or making significant improvements to property. Final funding decisions will be made in accordance with program guidelines. The Andre Sayegh Civic Association and Wellpoint New Jersey reserve the right to approve, modify or deny any application.

At the conclusion of funded projects, grantees will submit a brief report outlining how funds were used, the number of people served, outcomes achieved and examples demonstrating community impact. The Andre Sayegh Civic Association and Wellpoint New Jersey reserve the right to review or audit fund usage to ensure accountability.

The Andre Sayegh Civic Association will administer the Paterson Impact Grant Program and serve as a resource for applicants, providing guidance and support throughout the application and implementation process.

For full program details, eligibility requirements, and application information, visit www.SayeghCivic.org.

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Wellpoint, part of the Elevance Health family of brands, focuses on improving physical health as well as the behavioral and social drivers that impact it through a comprehensive suite of Medicare, Medicaid, and Commercial products. The Wellpoint companies offer healthcare services for consumers at any stage of life seeking to make the right care decisions and helps individuals and communities make real, positive progress with health plans that foster independence, confidence, and whole-person health. For more information, please visit www.wellpoint.com.

The Andre Sayegh Civic Association is a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening the Greater Paterson area through civic engagement, community partnerships, and local leadership. We create opportunities for residents to connect, grow, and lead. Our initiatives include:

Through these and other efforts, the Association fosters unity, empowerment, and progress across Greater Paterson.