Hi Annie, and thanks for contacting CTB.
As I understand your project, you are developing objective voter education information for elders who may have vision challenges, so they can be knowledgeabble voters - a very nice project!
I looked online at Amazon, and magnifying sheets aren't very expensive (Disclaimer: I own no Amazon stock; and I am sure there are other sources of magnifying sheets; but I hadn't known how much of an expense woiuld be involvled. in buying 108 sheets.) Therefore you are looking for a small grant. I suggest that you write up a one-page description of what you need the money for, and why. A very simple mission statement might be something like: It is very important that elders be able to see the information clearly before making decisions about voting. Simple is better. Include a budget. If a funding source needs more information, they will tell you what they need.
I suggest that you contact leaders of your local library system, the local League of Women Voters, and any community foundation in your area. Take time to get acquainted. Tell them what you seek and why. Be straightforward and confident - you have a good idea. Ask them if they can provide the needed funds, or if they will connect you with civic-minded organizations, individuals, or companies that might donate. Don't overlook the opportunity to go back to your own contacts in the area's assisted living and skilled nursing facilities and ask them to purchase the needed magnifiers.
Be aware that you may need to connect with an organization that has an IRS 501(c)(3) determination, so donors can take a tax deduction if they choose. The League is one such organization, and a community foundation may choose to just purchase the magnifiers themselves and give them to you.
Please do take a look at the CTB information on grant writing. Click on our Learn a Skill graphic at the top of the page, and then on Table of Contents. Chapter 42 has useful information if you need to write a more complicated application for funds.
I wish you success and hope this advice is helpful.
