Health New England to Contribute $175,000 to Local Organizations for Pandemic Relief
SPRINGFIELD — Health New England will contribute a total of $175,000 to support local nonprofit organizations helping individuals, families, and communities most vulnerable to the COVID-19 pandemic currently impacting the region.
A total of $145,000 will be allocated in the form of COVID-19 Response Mini Grants to eligible organizations, along with donations of $20,000 to the United Way of Pioneer Valley and $10,000 to Friends of the Homeless.
As part of its COVID-19 Response Mini Grant, Health New England will reallocate funds from its annual Where Health Matters Grant and Community Benefits programs toward awards of up to $10,000 per eligible organization. With the full extent of the pandemic not yet realized in Western and Central Mass., Health New England will spread its community support throughout the duration of 2020.
“Community and being a good neighbor have always been at the core of who we are. Now more than ever, our mission is to improve the health and lives of the people living in our communities,” said Kathleen Bruno, Public Health and Wellness Program manager. “Health New England is grateful and honored to be able to provide financial support to local organizations during these unprecedented times.”
In selecting organizations to receive financial support, Health New England will take into consideration a number of factors, including the health and safety needs of vulnerable populations such as elderly adults, individuals with underlying health conditions, and individuals with low income. Grants will also be awarded to organizations whose programs address housing needs, access to healthy food, education, child care, behavioral health, substance abuse, chronic conditions, and preventive health.
To be eligible for a COVID-19 Response Mini Grant, organizations must have programs that target communities in Health New England’s service area, including Berkshire, Franklin, Hampden, Hampshire, and Worcester counties. For more information on how to apply for a COVID-19 Response Mini Grant, visit our healthnewengland.org/community/charitable-giving.