Bluestem Community Fund
"Neighbors taking care of neighbors"
|
Bluestem’s mission is to provide the community with a more sustainable option for natural burial, while restoring land, and providing a healing place in nature.
|
What is the Bluestem Community Fund (BCF)?BCF provides financial assistance to eligible individuals who might not otherwise afford a full body natural burial at Bluestem Conservation Cemetery.
Who can Apply?An individual or a designated family member/community member who is familiar with the applicant’s situation can apply on their behalf.
Who is Eligible?Eligibility is based on 4 factors:
Type of Burial Applicant must be seeking a full body natural burial. At this time, BCF cannot support ash burial. Applicant Residency Applicant must reside in a county bordering Orange County, North Carolina. Eligible counties are: Orange, Durham, Chatham, Alamance, and Person. At this time, BCF cannot accept applicants outside of this geographical region. Diagnosis The applicant must be recently deceased or have received a medical diagnosis of a terminal illness with a life expectancy of no more than 6 months. Income The applicant's monthly household income must be under $4,933 for an individual. A couple's monthly household income must be under $5,962. Financial eligibility is based on the 2024 US Consumer Contribution Schedule. Application ProcessOnce a preliminary screening is completed by the Co-Directors, applicants will be called by a BCF committee member, for more applicant information. BCF Applications are reviewed by the committee that does not include Bluestem staff. Applicants will be informed of the committee's decision. The committee's decision is final. Contact the Co-Directors at [email protected].
History of the BCFThe Bluestem Community Fund (BCF) is a values-based initiative, designed and organized by Bluestem volunteers with the support of the Council of Stewards. The fund was established in 2022, when a local resident who delighted in the fact that his family could return his body to the earth simply, made a donation that has since catalyzed other donors into action. BCF continues to grow from gifts made in honor of Bluestem residents, hardworking volunteers, contributions from local churches, giving circles, and Bluestem’s Council of Stewards.
|
