The McDonald’s Florida Georgia Line Operators Association (FGLBU) has opened applications for its annual Golden Grants Program, offering financial support to K-12 education initiatives, youth sports programs, and nonprofit organizations serving children and families throughout North Florida and South Georgia.
This year’s program will award grants of $2,500 and $5,000 to organizations focused on education, mentorship, recreation, youth development, and related community services.
Program organizers said the grants come at a critical time as many nonprofits and youth-serving organizations face increasing financial challenges due to funding reductions, economic pressures, and heightened competition for charitable donations.
“Every day, our local mentors, teachers, and advocates pour everything they have into our youth, despite navigating an incredibly tough economic climate,” said Will Garcia, a local McDonald’s owner/operator, in the press release. “We created the Golden Grants program to champion the organizations that lift up our youth. It’s a privilege to help close these financial gaps so essential programs in sports, STEM, creative arts, and childcare can keep making a difference.”
Since its launch in 2020, the Golden Grants Program has awarded $164,000 to organizations across North Florida and South Georgia. In 2025 alone, the program distributed $45,000 to 11 organizations.
Among the recent recipients was WF Neighbors Feeding Neighbors, a nonprofit organization that provides nutritious food, essential resources, and community support to individuals and families experiencing food insecurity.
The program has also supported organizations such as IMPACT Youth Services, which focuses on addressing childhood trauma and promoting adolescent well-being.
“Support from the McDonald’s Golden Grant makes these moments possible,” said Keke Lee, founder of IMPACT Youth Services, in the press release. “Through mental wellness and youth development groups like this one, we are equipping young people with tools to build confidence, resilience, and hope—skills that extend far beyond the classroom and into their lives ahead.”
Applications for the 2026 Golden Grants Program will remain open through Oct. 9. Grant recipients will be notified and publicly announced in November.
Organizations interested in applying or learning more about the program can visit mcdgoldengrants.com.
About the Golden Grants Program
The McDonald’s Golden Grants Program supports nonprofit organizations, schools, and youth-serving initiatives throughout North Florida and South Georgia. The program provides funding for projects that promote education, youth development, mentorship, recreation, wellness and community engagement.