The BEFESA Community Fund is taking applications for its spring grants from local nonprofits and local service organizations such as libraries, youth activities, and fire and ambulance companies who assist the Palmerton community, Lehighton, and the Northern Lehigh school districts and their surrounding communities.

Rory Koons, who serves as chairman, said written requests should be sent in letter form with financial information about their organization, budget or last financial statement, the amount they seek, their need for the funds, and the name, address, and phone number of their contact person.

The next grant period will be reviewed in early May.

“Eligible nonprofit organizations may submit applications prior to our May board of directors meeting,” Koons said.

All requests should be mailed to the fund at P.O. Box 351, Palmerton, PA 18071.

The group has officially changed its name from the Horsehead Community Development Fund to the BEFESA Community Fund.

Since 1990, HCDF has awarded more than $3.5 million to organizations, committees, and programs.

Befesa Zinc, the current owner and operating company in Palmerton, is now the sole funding source for the Community Fund.