Project Homeless Connect and the Soldotna High School girls soccer team were selected as recipients of Soldotna’s mini grants on Wednesday, both receiving $1,000 to assist with operating expenses.

According to a memo from City Clerk Johni Blankenship included in the Soldotna City Council’s meeting packet, the two organizations were the only applicants this cycle — the second of two rounds of funding this year — and both were found to be eligible for mini grants this fiscal year.

Mini Grants, according to the city’s Mini Grant Policy, provide funding to civic programs, services and events that contribute to the cultural and economic environment or the quality of life of the Soldotna community.

Kathy Gensel spoke for Project Homeless Connect, saying the funds would be used to purchase gift cards — intended to cover a meal for someone experiencing housing instability — or vouchers for showers or laundry. Her presentation to the council followed a separate presentation earlier in the meeting where Leslie Rohr reported back about this year’s Project Homeless Connect event held in Soldotna in January. More than 30 vendors served 115 people in the facility — and through those 115 connected services to 185 once family members were tallied.

Kimberly Powell spoke for SoHi Girls soccer. She said her girls “work their tails off,” and that they were seeking grant funding to purchase new goal nets and uniforms, also to pay for referees. A budget document included with her application describes nearly $7,000 in projected expenditures for this year’s season.

“Every little bit helps us be able to achieve those gals that the girls have worked so hard on,” she said.

The two grants were approved by unanimous consent of the council.

Member Jordan Chilson said he’s “grateful” that Soldotna offers the mini grant program, to put dollars into community organizations who are doing good work locally.

A full recording of the meeting is available at “City of Soldotna” on YouTube.

Reach reporter Jake Dye at jacob.dye@peninsulaclarion.com.

Kimberly Powell, coach of the Soldotna High School soccer team, speaks during a meeting of the Soldotna City Council in Soldotna, Alaska, on Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2025. (Jake Dye/Peninsula Clarion)