Heartland Healthy Living Fund

The Heartland Healthy Living Fund was established as a strategic response to the Kansas Health Foundation’s second phase of the Giving Resources to Our World (GROW II) match grant initiative. The aim of the fund is to strengthen public health efforts in select counties in Kansas, aligning with the broader mission of fostering healthy lifestyles and promoting preventative health measures. As part of a community-focused approach, the fund underscores the importance of proactive, rather than reactive, health strategies to benefit individuals and communities alike. The scope of the fund is tightly focused on public health-related initiatives in Ellis, Rooks, and Trego Counties in Kansas. Public health, in this context, is understood as the protection and promotion of individual and community well-being through supportive environments and the encouragement of healthy behaviors. Grants are awarded for programs or projects that take a preventative approach to health, targeting healthy living rather than direct healthcare services or treatments for existing illnesses. As such, applications proposing traditional healthcare services or treatment-based models will not be considered. Eligible entities for grant support include a wide spectrum of organizational types. Specifically, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, government bodies, and religious organizations are eligible to apply. Individuals and other entities that do not fall into these categories are encouraged to seek fiscal sponsorship from an eligible organization. If fiscal sponsorship is not possible, applicants are advised to contact the community foundation to determine their eligibility and any additional reporting requirements that may apply. Geographic restrictions are firmly in place; grants must benefit communities within the three designated Kansas counties. The types of support provided through this fund are diverse. Funding may be allocated toward new community-serving projects or initiatives that further the mission of the applying organization. Start-up costs, operational expenses, and capacity-building measures are eligible for support, as are technology upgrades, professional development, and additional staff for new programs. Capital improvements, including renovations or new construction, and endowment funds to provide long-term sustainability may also be considered. However, requests for endowment support are unlikely to be approved unless directly tied to a specific initiative. Grant funds will not support political activities, discriminatory practices, incomplete or late applications, or the retirement of debts associated with previously completed projects. Applications are accepted during the fund’s spring cycle, which runs from March 15 to May 15 annually. This predictable application window allows prospective applicants time to plan and prepare proposals. Submissions outside of this window will not be accepted, and timeliness is essential. No pre-application requirements such as letters of intent or concept papers are indicated. Details on specific application components, required uploads, or evaluation processes are not provided in the available materials. Applicants are encouraged to contact the community foundation directly for any questions or clarifications regarding eligibility or the application process. Based on the recurrence of the spring cycle, the next submission period after the 2026 window will likely begin March 15, 2027.