The Health and Environmental Justice grant program is an initiative that recognizes the significant impact of environmental and social conditions on individual and community health. Rooted in a commitment to health equity, this program acknowledges that health outcomes are shaped by the broader environment in which people are born, live, learn, work, play, worship, and age. It seeks to fund projects that provide comprehensive and culturally responsive solutions to improve quality of life and reduce disparities.
The program supports a wide range of activities, including advocacy, service delivery, and systems change efforts that address health disparities. Funding priorities include improving access to healthcare services, ensuring culturally competent practices, enhancing behavioral and physical health, and promoting maternal and infant health. Additionally, the program backs efforts to expand access to safe and affordable housing, including homelessness outreach, eviction prevention, and housing repairs.
Food insecurity is another key concern. The grant supports food system improvements such as pantry operations, basic needs assistance, waste reduction, and community gardening. Environmental justice is a core pillar, with support for initiatives that reduce exposure to environmental hazards, clean up contaminated areas, and promote green infrastructure, such as tree planting and air quality monitoring.
Grants typically range between $5,000 and $15,000. Requests for larger amounts are considered on a case-by-case basis and require prior consultation with program staff before submission. Proposals are accepted once annually, with the next cycle opening in Summer 2026. The program is currently closed to applications.
Eligible projects must demonstrate how they address intersecting health and environmental concerns within affected communities, particularly those disproportionately impacted by systemic inequalities. Applicants are encouraged to use data-driven approaches and demonstrate potential for meaningful impact.
For more information or to discuss project eligibility for a future cycle, prospective applicants can contact Francesca Evangelista, Program Officer, at fevangelista@conncf.org or by phone at 203-753-1315.
