The Endowment announces first grant awards of 2026New Hanover Community Endowment logo (Photo: Amber Rogerson). WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — The Endowment has provisionally approved a $7,750,000 grant to the City of Wilmington. The grant will support the acquisition of land for conversation and activation as a community centered park. Grant funds will help conserve green space in New Hanover County, expand outdoor recreation, and create community gathering spaces. Additionally, The Endowment has approved a $75,000 grant commitment to the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services to support of the 2026 SUN Bucks program for eligible children across the state.