Smock Foundation History
Laura and Frank Smock lived a comfortable life in Fort Wayne, Indiana, and were dedicated to their Presbyterian faith. When Frank died in 1937, he left Laura his modest estate.
In 1953, when Laura Smock was in her late 80’s, her inheritance increased significantly. She was beyond the age that she could benefit from her new wealth and so she graciously and generously decided that others should be helped by her good fortune. Thus, the Smock Foundation was established upon her death in 1955.
Laura Smock’s wish was to “help aged Presbyterians in the state of Indiana for such benevolent, charitable, religious, educational or any allied public purposes... that will promote the health, welfare and happiness of ailing or needy or crippled or blind.”
Although primarily concerned for the comfort of people of the Presbyterian faith in their declining years, she generously recognized the needs created by life’s misfortunes among others as well.
Since 1955, the Frank L. and Laura L. Smock Foundation has helped countless needy Indiana Presbyterians. The foundation has grown in worth as well as in the scope of how its funds can help others.
Over the past several years, The Smock Foundation has broadened its scope of helping Indiana Presbyterians by supporting PC (USA) churches and presbyteries. The Smock Foundation reviews grant applications that will provide Smock Deacon funds for churches, church facility improvements that will make it easier for all, and especially elderly, members to attend services and activities, individual Presbyterians who need financial assistance, and funds for churches to sponsor programs and activities for senior members.