The Jess Merkle Foundation
Invitation OnlyShreveport, Louisiana · EIN 72-1336331 · Private foundation
Grants paid (2024)$395K
Organizations funded7
Typical grant$10,000
Total assets$7.3M
Half of its grants to organizations were between $10,000 and $115,000.
From the return
How to apply
On its return for tax year 2024 the foundation checked the box saying it only makes contributions to preselected charitable organizations and does not accept unsolicited requests for funds.
What it funds
Share of grant lines on the latest return, classified from the purpose each grant states.
Where it gives
0% of grants went outside Louisiana.
Grants paid in tax year 2024
| Recipient | Location | Purpose | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kings Highway Christian Church | Shreveport, LA | To restore the church to its orignial state before the fire, smoke & water damage | $220,000 |
| Salvation Army of Shreveport Bossier City | Shreveport, LA | To provide emergency shelter and temporary housing for single woman/men, women with children and veterans | $115,000 |
| Christian Service Institue | Shreveport, LA | To serve those in need with food, clothing, and other resources | $20,000 |
| Community Renewal International | Shreveport, LA | To connect neighbors and residents to restore the foundation of safe and caring communities | $10,000 |
| Helping Others Halfway House | Shreveport, LA | To serve those in need with food, clothing, and other resources | $10,000 |
| Highland Club | Shreveport, LA | To educate,counsel and treat persons of all ages who suffer from alcoholism | $10,000 |
| Louisiana United Methodist Children & Family Services | Ruston, LA | Charitable contribution to church | $10,000 |
Giving by year
| Tax year | Grants paid | Grant lines |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | $395,000 | 7 |
| 2023 | $390,095 | 12 |
Sources
- IRS Form 990-PF, tax year 2024, filed Nov 14, 2025 - IRS e-file batch, object ID 202503189349102530
- IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search for EIN 72-1336331
- Profile updated Nov 5, 2026
Facts on this page come from the foundation's own IRS Form 990-PF filings as published by the IRS. Grantvello does not know whether a foundation is accepting proposals right now: a past grant is not an open opportunity. Always confirm current guidelines with the funder before applying.