The VyStar Foundation donated a 2,556-square-foot building to Jacksonville-based Three Grains of Rice Missions on June 21.
The former First Coast Federal Credit Union branch at 3040 Edison Ave. is the new headquarters for the nonprofit, providing a dedicated space for its operations and programs.
VyStar Credit Union acquired First Coast Federal in 2022. The branch on Edison Avenue was its only office.
According to the Duval County Property Appraiser, in 2022 the property had a just market value of $231,200.
Three Grains of Rice Missions provides resources for housing, food, clothing, medical care and educational programming to individuals and families struggling with food and housing instability as well as local and international disaster relief and humanitarian aid.
“The selection committee recognized the need in the community for these services, in addition to the effectiveness of the organization’s leadership and their alignment with the Foundation’s areas of focus,” Patricia McElroy, president of VyStar Foundation, said in a news release.
The nonprofit expects the office to officially open and provide a full range of services to the public by mid-August.
“This new building will be a game-changer for our organization, allowing us to better serve the needs of our community. We believe this partnership will be a powerful force for positive change,” Three Grains founder Ed Perez said in the release.
The VyStar Foundation establishes partnerships that support military members, veterans, youth and overall community vitality in the areas served by VyStar Credit Union. Grants through VyStar Foundation are available to 501(c)(3) organizations whose purpose and mission align with the foundation’s strategic giving pillars.
The foundation will launch its next grant cycle in August giving funding priority to nonprofit organizations that support underserved youth.
The youth grant cycle opens Aug. 21 and closes Sept. 30. For more information, visit vystarfoundation.org.