The City of Gastonia has received $65,000 in grants from the Gaston Community Foundation to support the Gaston County Winter Weather Shelter/Center and expand educational and community programming through Gastonia Sister Cities.
The Gaston Community Foundation’s Board of Directors approved a $45,000 grant for the Gaston County Winter Weather Shelter/Center for the 2026–2027 winter season. The center provides a safe, warm place for anyone in the community who needs somewhere to go when temperatures reach 32 degrees and below. The grant was awarded through the Community Foundation’s unrestricted funds, which support strategic and impactful efforts throughout Gaston County.
“The grants from the Gaston Community Foundation will provide support for programs that serve our residents, create opportunities for learning and engagement, and strengthen connections within the Gastonia community and beyond,” said Stacy Pethia, Director of Housing and Community Engagement.
The Community Foundation also awarded $20,000 to support Gastonia Sister Cities. Of that amount, $15,000 will provide scholarships for students to travel to the City’s Sister Cities, helping make international travel and cultural experiences more accessible to local students.
The remaining $5,000 will support capacity building for the Sister Cities Peace Crew program and the return of World Wide Wednesdays. The program will expand opportunities for residents to learn about different countries and cultures while strengthening the City’s international programming and community outreach.
The City of Gastonia wants to thank the Gaston Community Foundation for its continued investment in programs that benefit residents and strengthen the community.
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Gastonia, N.C., just minutes west of Charlotte, is one of the area’s best places to live and work with an ideal combination of location, size and livability. Gastonia is the largest of Gaston County’s 13 municipalities and one of the largest cities in the Charlotte metropolitan area. Selected as an All-America City three times, Gastonia’s desirable quality of life is the result of its beautiful natural surroundings, friendly neighborhoods, responsive government and vibrant business environment.