The Community Foundation of Tampa Bay's Pinellas program distributed $220,435 to youth athletic organizations across the county in its July 2026 grant cycle, more than doubling any previous payout in the nonprofit's history.

The record distribution, announced Sunday, Aug. 9 on CFY's blog, went to programs countywide. CFY supports approximately 55 youth organizations annually across Pinellas County, with that number continuing to grow. Clearwater-area recipients include the Clearwater Jr. Tornadoes, Countryside Jr. Cougars, Clearwater Little League, Countryside Little League, Clearwater Aquatic Team, Clearwater Yellow Jackets Lacrosse, Clearwater Bullets Softball, Clearwater Lady Bombers Softball and the Clearwater Neighborhood Family Center.

Eight football and cheer organizations received grants covering helmets, shoulder pads, uniforms and registration assistance. Nearly $35,000 went to Facility Enhancement Grants for new batting cages at one Little League organization and one grassroots baseball program.

Fifty-five percent of children registered through CFY-supported programs have all or part of their fees covered, according to the organization's grants page.

Water safety comes to Title I schools

The grant cycle coincides with a new state-funded partnership between CFY and Pinellas County Schools that will bring two weeks of free water safety instruction to students from 10 Title I schools at community pools. The program addresses transportation barriers that keep some families from accessing swim education.

CFY received the funding through the 2026 Florida state budget. The organization credited Gov. Ron DeSantis, Senate Appropriations Committee Chair Ed Hooper, Sen. Nick DiCeglie and state Rep. Kimberly Berfield for supporting the appropriation. Berfield's district office sits on Cleveland Street in Clearwater.

CFY said the grants and state funding together are expanding access to youth athletics and water safety programs across Pinellas County.

What's next

The July cycle was the fourth of six planned for 2026. Organizations that serve youth can apply for the next round. The Cycle 5 deadline is Tuesday, Aug. 25. Two more cycles close Oct. 25 and Dec. 18.