Deadlines: September 30, 2007 and March 31, 2008

Hamburger Helper, a General Mills company, has announced a call for entries for the 2008 "My Hometown Helper" grant program, a nationwide initiative designed to lend a "helping hand" to local groups making a difference in their community.

People looking to improve their hometown- from helping to fund a volunteer fire department, to restoring a town landmark, to supporting a local school- are encouraged to submit entries. Last year, the program gave away more than $200,000 in total grants and helped communities purchase new band equipment, build a school playground, and fund a tornado warning system, among other projects.

Applicants are invited to submit an essay of 250 words or less describing how the grant would help with their community project. Award amounts will range from $500 to $15,000 each, and all requests for funding must be sponsored by a charitable organization, municipal or civic organization, or a public school. Funds will be awarded based on the merit of the project, including its impact on, and support within, the community.

For more information the online application, visit My Hometown Helper.