In an impressive display of community commitment, the Sisters Health Foundation has awarded significant funding to non-profit organizations operating in the Mid-Ohio Valley. Their recent grant allocation totaled $479,227, positively impacting 45 organizations and aligning with the foundation’s vision of fostering “healthy people in healthy communities.” This initiative, which focuses on vital areas such as healthy eating, active living, and essential support services, underscores the foundation’s dedication to improving the health and well-being of local residents.
Renee Steffen, the Executive Director of Sisters Health Foundation, expressed enthusiasm about the diverse range of community needs met through this funding cycle. She noted, “We had the opportunity to respond to a wide range of community needs this cycle with the highest number of requests in our Healthy Eating, Active Living priority area.” Several grant partners, including WVU at Parkersburg and Roane County PATCH, are engaging local youth in sustainable agriculture initiatives, promoting both education and self-sufficiency.
The funding isn’t just limited to larger-scale projects. Eighteen organizations focused on providing basic needs received a total of $51,850 from the Basic Needs/Direct Service Grants Program. For instance, the Athens County Pantry received $2,000 to procure hygiene and cleaning products to be distributed alongside food, while Beechwood Presbyterian Church in Parkersburg received $3,000 for fresh food in its assistance program.
These grants are structured to provide flexibility, allowing organizations to adapt to the changing external environment. For example, Catholic Charities WV, which received $4,000, will use the funds to assist income-eligible households with utility and rent support. Similarly, initiatives like the Momma T street feeding program in Parkersburg are utilizing a $2,500 grant to ensure that hot meals are available for vulnerable populations experiencing homelessness.
Looking beyond basic needs, 27 organizations were awarded a total of $427,377 to address community health within priority areas encompassing Healthy Eating, Active Living, Thriving Neighborhoods, and Mental Health and Addiction. This embraces a holistic approach to community well-being. Notably, the Appalachian Family Center for Autism will use a $3,750 grant to support swim lessons for children with disabilities, enhancing access to quality learning experiences.
The Thriving Neighborhoods priority area also saw significant contributions. Ohio University Heritage College of Osteopathic Medicine, for example, was awarded $20,000 to support essential health services for the uninsured and underinsured in the area. Likewise, Parkersburg Area Coalition for the Homeless received $11,000 for crucial electrical upgrades at their facility, which serves as a drop-in shelter for those experiencing housing insecurity.
Mental health has become an increasing focus for many community-based initiatives, especially following disruptions caused by the pandemic. The Sisters Health Foundation’s grants to organizations like Hope House in Ravenswood, which received $20,000 to support operations of a sober living home for women, highlight a targeted approach to combating substance use disorders.
As the Sisters Health Foundation looks to the future, they continue to encourage other non-profits to apply for funding in their upcoming grant cycles. The deadline for the next round of applications is July 16, 2025. Nonprofits interested in these grants can reach out for guidance and support to ensure they meet the eligibility criteria and maximize their chances for funding.
Since its inception in 1996, the Sisters Health Foundation has emphasized the importance of fostering healthy and sustainable communities. With over $24 million in grants awarded, it is evident that their commitment is unwavering. They serve 11 counties across the Mid-Ohio Valley, strategically targeting areas that need the greatest attention and support.
In reflecting on this latest grant cycle, it’s clear that the Sisters Health Foundation is not just providing funds; they are cultivating a culture of care and collaboration that enriches the entire community. The support given to local organizations enables them to innovate, adapt, and expand their offerings, leading to healthier communities now and in the future. For more information about grant applications and the impact of their initiatives, interested parties can visit the foundation’s website at www.sistershealthfdn.org.
In conclusion, the Sisters Health Foundation’s recent grants highlight the importance of community engagement and support. They not only address immediate needs but also invest in long-term strategies that aim to transform lives and enhance the well-being of all community members. Through these concerted efforts, the foundation firmly believes in nourishing the health and future of the Mid-Ohio Valley.
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