Health Equity Impact Grants

Community Action, Inc. of Central Texas is offering the Health Equity Impact Grants to support organizations working to improve the social determinants of health in Hays County, Texas. Established in 1965 during the War on Poverty, Community Action has evolved into a multi-service nonprofit delivering health, education, and human services across ten counties. These grants represent the newest initiative in their portfolio, with a focus on funding solutions that address economic and social barriers contributing to inequities in community health. The Health Equity Impact Grant initiative consists of two funding pathways: the Pulse Fund and the Social Vitality Fund. The Pulse Fund offers short-term, responsive grants of up to $10,000 to support immediate needs and create momentum in areas like food access, housing, employment, education, and community engagement. This funding is designed to deliver quick results through events, services, or direct support initiatives. The Social Vitality Fund offers up to $40,000 for year-long programs aimed at addressing systemic issues and building long-term solutions that improve economic stability and community resilience. To be eligible, applicants must either be a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in good standing or partner with one as a fiscal sponsor. Projects must directly serve Hays County residents and demonstrate how they will contribute to economic stability, one of the core focus areas defined by the grant. Additional qualifying areas include education, healthcare access, social and community life, and neighborhood environment. Applications must clearly articulate goals and metrics, be culturally responsive, and show collaboration, innovation, and sustainability. The application process begins with the submission of a Letter of Interest (LOI) due by 5:00 p.m. CDT on October 10, 2025. LOIs that meet the eligibility criteria will receive notification by October 24, 2025, and selected applicants will be invited to submit a full application by November 7, 2025. Grant recipients will be announced in December 2025. Funds for the Pulse Fund will be disbursed in January 2026. For Social Vitality Fund recipients, funding will be distributed in two parts: half in January 2026 and the remainder in July 2026 or as otherwise agreed. Optional information sessions are being offered in both virtual and in-person formats across several library locations in Hays County. These sessions are designed to help applicants strengthen their proposals and understand alignment with the grant's values. Full details, including the LOI template and registration links for information sessions, are available on the organization’s website. Applicants are encouraged to use the official templates and review the scoring rubric, which emphasizes economic impact, equity, cultural responsiveness, and sustainability. Questions may be directed to Bethany Moore, LCSW, Community Development Director at Community Action, Inc. of Central Texas, by phone at 512-392-1161 Ext. 353 or via email at bmoore@communityaction.com.

Applicants are strongly encouraged to attend optional info sessions and review the scoring rubric. Strong proposals should demonstrate measurable economic impact, community collaboration, and culturally responsive approaches.