The George G. and Alva Hudson Smith Foundation has announced its grant awards for 2022. The Foundation is committing $126,000 to 6 organizations across Hill County. In the 28 years since its existence, the Foundation has awarded over $2,400,000 to area organizations which serve the community.
This year’s grants were awarded to a variety of educational, community service, cultural, and social service organizations for projects consistent with the Foundation’s mission to enrich the lives of Hill County citizens. Grant amounts ranged from $5,000 to $67,666.
The largest grant was to the Hillsboro City Library for the renovation, expansion and restoration of the building and its programs. Other grants funded additional projects in Hillsboro, as well as Whitney, and Covington.
A complete list of recipients, amounts, and purposes of this year’s grants are provided below.
Covington ISD
The Covington ISD was a 2022 awardee of the Smith Foundation, with a grant for the purchase of interactive computer panels and smart tablets to update classroom instruction. This interactive technology helps teachers prepare Hill County students with the skills and knowledge they will need to be successful in a high-tech world of the future.
Covington Volunteer Fire Department
The Covington Volunteer Fire Department was a 2022 recipient of a grant for the purchase of radio equipment needed to be in compliance with the Hill County’s change in radio systems, $22,500. These radios replace inoperable or ineffective equipment and will now allow the VFD to effectively dispatch its local emergency volunteers and request additional resources from other first responders.
Hill County Museum
The Hill County Museum was a 2022 recipient of a grant for the purchase of an updated computer and associated software to facilitate cataloging of artifacts. This technology will help museum staff organize and display historical artifacts in an interesting way, as well as educate visitors and school children about Hill County’s history.
Hillsboro City Library
The Smith Foundation made a three-year commitment totaling $200,000 to the renovation and expansion of the Library building and the programs which serve the community. One-third of the total amount will be awarded each year beginning in 2022.
Hillsboro Heritage League
The Hillsboro Heritage League as a 2022 awardee of the Smith Foundation, with a grant for the purchase of eight historical replicas of the Courthouse Street Lamps which were original to the courthouse, $15,700. These lamps will help unify the downtown area and retain its beauty and authenticity. The poles are equipped with plugs at the base and can be used for festivals and other purposes. Replacement of electric lamps
White Bluff Volunteer Fire Dept.
The White Bluff Volunteer Fire Department was a 2022 recipient of a grant for the purchase of updated breathing apparatus for fire fighters entering burning structures. This equipment will allow first responders to enter burning structures more safely and effectively as they strive to preserve lives and property in White Bluff and the surrounding Hill County area.
Information about the foundation is available on this website or from:
The George G. and Alva Hudson Smith Foundation | P. O. Box 1245 | Hillsboro, TX 76645