Spring Syringe Services & Community-Based Harm Reduction Programs Grant

The Comer Family Foundation supports syringe services and community-based harm reduction programs that aim to improve the health and wellness of individuals who use drugs. These initiatives provide free safer use supplies, harm reduction education, and community-based wraparound services to mitigate opioid overdoses and reduce transmission rates of HIV and viral hepatitis. The foundation's mission aligns with principles of harm reduction and is informed by equity, inclusivity, and the involvement of individuals directly affected by drug use. Applications for funding are accepted twice a year, with deadlines on May 1 and November 1. Grants are available to U.S.-based organizations including those operating in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Native American Reservations, Tribal Lands, and Puerto Rico. Eligible applicants must be tax-exempt under IRS code 501(c)(3) and not classified as private foundations. Applications from tribal governments and organizations using a fiscal sponsor are also welcome. Key eligibility criteria include an annual organizational budget under $600,000, operational experience of at least one full year, and active provision of safer use supplies through syringe services and harm reduction programs. The foundation emphasizes funding for organizations led by individuals who use drugs and those disproportionately impacted by the criminalization of drug use. Additional priorities include groups located in underfunded areas, regions with limited access to similar services, or places where policy shifts could lead to broader impact. Programs that demonstrate innovative practices or serve high-need regions—such as areas with elevated HIV, HCV, and overdose rates—are especially encouraged to apply. Funding is limited to general operating support and single-year grants, with typical award amounts ranging from $2,500 to $20,000. Applicants must use the foundation's online grant portal to apply, requiring them to create a user profile and complete a detailed application. Required documentation includes a project budget, funding sources, a 501(c)(3) determination letter (or fiscal sponsor letter), Board of Directors list, and the Equity Representation Matrix. Optional materials include letters of support. Application tutorials and templates are available online to assist applicants, and the portal includes features such as auto-save and a user dashboard for managing applications. The application process requires a robust summary of the funding request, program details, participant demographics, health data from the applicant's region, and an explanation of how funds will be utilized. Programs must also detail the involvement of people who use drugs and people of color in organizational leadership and program design. Applications are reviewed by the Board of Directors within 30 days of the submission deadline. Award decisions for the May cycle are announced in July, and those for the November cycle are announced in January. Confirmation emails are sent upon successful submission, and applicants may be contacted for further information, including meetings or site visits. For additional questions, applicants are encouraged to contact the foundation via email. The grant system supports transparency, data privacy, and reduced administrative burden through collaborative tool design with partners such as NASTAD and AIDS United.

Applicants are encouraged to preview the application, use the budget and equity matrix templates, and adhere to character limits. Tutorials available for system navigation.