Sarkeys Foundation Executive Director Kim Henry has announced the Foundation's 2009 grant awards in the amount of $1,186,054 to assist a variety of Oklahoma nonprofits, including several Norman organizations.

"During these difficult economic times, it's especially important to help those in need, and the Sarkeys Foundation's mission of improving the quality of life in Oklahoma is something we take very seriously," Henry said. "We are pleased to be able to award over $1 million worth of grants and are proud to provide financial help and resources to our fellow Oklahomans."

· Meals on Wheels of Norman was awarded $46,725 to provide subsidies for low income clients.

· NAIC-Norman Addiction Information and Counseling, Norman, was awarded $18,260 to assist with the expansion of the gambling treatment program.

· Center for Children and Families, Inc., Norman, was awarded $50,000 to assist with the Trauma Focused Program.

· Community After School Program, Norman, was awarded $25,000 to assist with the pilot of a nutrition and physical education program.

· Oklahoma Arts Institute, Norman, was awarded $25,000 to provide scholarships for public school educators to attend the Oklahoma Fall Arts Institute.

· A New Leash on Life, Norman, was awarded $22,550 to help provide educational funds and training supplies.

· Youth and Family Services of El Reno was awarded $55,000 to assist with the Independent Living and Foster Care programs.

· Armed Services YMCA, Lawton, was awarded $100,000 in support of childcare scholarship assistance for families of those enlisted personnel deployed or returning from overseas.

· Iron Gate, Tulsa, was awarded $20,000 to support a food pantry.

· Rebuilding Together Oklahoma City was awarded $50,000 to assist with roofing repairs or replacements for low-income, elderly homeowners.

· Variety Health Center, Oklahoma City, was awarded $50,000 to assist with the "Espera Mas" project.

· YMCA of Greater OKC was awarded $20,000 to assist with the funding of the Military Welcome Center.

· YWCA of Oklahoma City was awarded $100,000 in support of the Children's Crisis Center.