Mother Cabrini Health Foundation Grant

The Mother Cabrini Health Foundation is a private, philanthropic organization based in New York, rooted in the Catholic tradition and the legacy of Saint Frances Xavier Cabrini. The foundation is committed to improving the health and well-being of vulnerable populations across New York State by funding programs that address critical healthcare and related social needs. While the foundation operates in a secular and inclusive manner, all funded programs must align with the ethical principles of the Roman Catholic faith, particularly those outlined by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. The foundation’s grantmaking is structured across several programmatic focus areas: Access to Healthcare, Basic Needs, Healthcare Workforce, Mental and Behavioral Health, and a General Fund that serves eight priority populations including immigrants, justice-involved individuals, older adults, veterans, and others. Each of these categories targets specific challenges, such as healthcare affordability, housing insecurity, workforce shortages, and mental health disparities. For instance, Access to Healthcare grants may support telehealth or mobile units, while Basic Needs grants may fund nutrition programs, housing stability services, and economic mobility initiatives. Notably, capital development for housing is excluded from funding. Eligibility for grants is limited to U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organizations in good standing with both the IRS and the State of New York. Applicant organizations must have an annual operating budget of at least $750,000 and serve poor, disadvantaged, or underserved New York State residents. While organizations are not required to be affiliated with the Catholic Church, all grant activities must comply with Catholic ethical principles. Grants generally begin at $75,000 and may include up to 15% in indirect costs. MCHF does not fund individuals, lobbying activities, political campaigns, or fundraising events, and generally does not support capital campaigns or re-granting without explicit permission. The application process for the 2026 funding cycle opens with a Letter of Inquiry (LOI) submission window from March 30 to April 23, 2026, closing at 11:59 PM ET. A corresponding LOI webinar will be held on April 7. Following LOI review, selected applicants will be invited to submit full proposals by mid-June 2026. Final grant decisions will be issued in October and December 2026. Though the foundation does not guarantee renewal, it encourages diversification of funding and values innovative approaches, especially those from organizations that have not previously received funding. All grant recipients must agree to regular reporting and monitoring, including semiannual reports and possible site visits. Financial accountability is emphasized, with the requirement to submit audited financials unless exempted. Additionally, grantees must maintain licensing and background checks for staff and may not use grant funds to supplant existing government support, although they may augment such programs. Programs must also be designed to benefit the specific populations they aim to serve, and any publicity must acknowledge the foundation's support, with prior approval required. The Mother Cabrini Health Foundation’s approach is shaped by a commitment to equitable health access, cultural competence, and responsiveness to systemic social determinants of health. By emphasizing direct services, collaboration, and measurable outcomes, MCHF aims to create long-term, sustainable improvements in the health trajectories of New York State’s most vulnerable communities.

MCHF prioritizes direct services and welcomes new applicants; programs must align with Catholic values.