The Coos Bay Area Zonta Service Foundation is seeking applications from local nonprofits to provide grants for programs that make a positive change in the lives of women and children.

The purpose of the foundation is to work for the improvement of the legal, economic, educational, health and professional status of women and children. The club’s focus is to support groups that work to make a positive change in the lives of women and create a better world for them and their communities. Grants will be provided for either general operating support or special projects.

The funds available for distribution this year are a result of the club’s Celebrity Dinner and Auction held in February. The Coos Bay Area Zonta Service Foundation recently distributed more than $8500 in school supplies to Coos County public schools through the Little Red Schoolhouse program. This fall $6,500 in academic scholarship awards to local women will be distributed.

Grant applications are due Oct. 19. For more information or to obtain an application, those interested can visit htpp://www.zontacoosbay.org or call Shirley MacAdam at 269-9338 or shirley.macadam@hmwcpas.com.