WHEELING, W.Va. — The Community Foundation for the Ohio Valley (CFOV) and its affiliate, GIVE Belmont County, are pleased to announce the 2026 grant recipients of the Belmont County Enrichment Fund (BCEF). This year, 13 local organizations will receive grants totaling $66,463 to support projects that enhance the quality of life across Belmont County.
The BCEF grant program offers a competitive funding opportunity for organizations serving Belmont County. Originally established in 2013 as the Smith-Goshen Rice Enrichment Fund, the program was created by a group of Belmont County landowners and the former Rice Energy with a shared vision of reinvesting in the community. While the fund has evolved into the Belmont County Enrichment Fund, its mission remains the same: to strengthen and uplift Belmont County through strategic, place-based philanthropy.
CFOV continues to value its partnership with EQT Corporation and the EQT Foundation, which acquired Rice Energy in 2017. This collaboration reinforces a shared commitment to supporting impactful initiatives and expanding opportunities for growth throughout the region. Since its inception, GIVE Belmont County has awarded nearly $700,000 in grants, demonstrating the power of local philanthropy and the importance of collaborative giving in meeting community needs.
“The strength of Belmont County lies in the organizations working every day to serve their neighbors,” says Executive Director Susie Nelson. “Through the Belmont County Enrichment Fund, we’re able to invest in projects that create opportunity, build resilience, and make a lasting difference across the county.”
The 2026 Belmont County Enrichment Fund grants support a wide range of initiatives, including public safety, health and human services, youth development, food access, and community enrichment, helping organizations better serve Belmont County residents.
- Barnesville State Theater Company – Reconstruct Men’s and Women’s bathrooms – $10,000.00
- Belmont Fire Department – Funding for payment for fire engine – $5,000.00
- Belmont Soar FC – Portable Lighting Project – $2,000.00
- Bridgeport Volunteer Fire Department – CO Detector Project – $4,775.00
- Calvary Presbyterian Church – Little Kidz Kloset — Supporting Families and Little Ones – $2,000.00
- Faith in Action Caregivers, Inc. – Volunteer Match Program – $3,000.00
- First Christian Church – 5 loaves food ministry – $5,000.00
- Miracle of Life Support Group – Preschool Clothing Initiative – $2,000.00
- Ohio Hills Health Services – Expanding Community Healthcare for the Underserved – $5,862.00
- OR&W Fire District – Ice rescue equipment – $5,862.00
- R.L. Strength & Conditioning – Guiding the Youth – $5,500.00
- Salvation Army – Belmont County, OH – Emergency Family Shelter – $5,500.00
- Union Local School District – Middle School Outdoor Community Recreation and Education Zone – $10,000.00
TOTAL AWARDED: $66,463.00
These grants will help fund innovative programs and essential services that address real needs, strengthen neighborhoods, and improve overall quality of life throughout Belmont County.
To view photos from the grant reception, click here.
