The pandemic has created financial challenges for many nonprofits and municipal organizations aimed at helping their communities. But groups can get a helping hand this year by applying to the 2021 A Community Thrives program, a $2.3 million initiative of the Gannett Foundation. The program is sponsored by Gannett, the USA TODAY Network’s parent company, and is marking its fifth year supporting groups that address social issues. Organizations can apply to raise money for a specific project. They’ll first raise money on their own through crowdfunding campaigns, and then be eligible for one of 15 national grants which award up to $100,000. Separate incentives aimed at rewarding high-fundraising projects will also be offered.