The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation has launched a new initiative to help restore abandoned and neglected cemeteries across the state. Ten annual grants, each valued at up to $20,000, will be awarded to local governments and not-for-profit organizations dedicated to cemetery preservation. The program aims to protect historic sites and honor community heritage by funding cleanup, repairs, and maintenance efforts. Interested groups must submit their applications by October 24th for a chance to secure funding. Officials hope the grants will spark renewed public interest in preserving the stories and history reflected in these resting places.
“Cemeteries hold deep historical and emotional significance for local communities, and it is vital they are properly maintained for future generations to honor and remember their loved ones,” said IDFPR Secretary Mario Treto, Jr. “This program will help qualified cemeteries obtain the resources they need to restore the beauty of countless final resting places across Illinois.”
AmpliFund, Illinois’ Grant Management Support, will host a virtual training session for those seeking to apply for a grant on Thursday, September 4th, at 3 pm. Attendees can join the training by clicking this link. The training session will also be recorded and made available on IDFPR’s YouTube page.
Questions about the Cemetery Relief Fund Grant Program should be directed to Denise Bullocks, IDFPR Deputy Director of Cemetery and Funeral Oversight, by emailing [email protected] or calling 312-814-6187.
