The Horizon Foundation, Maryland's largest independent health philanthropy, has launched a new funding opportunity focused on food insecurity and nutrition in Howard County. With a strong commitment to racial equity and health justice, the Foundation aims to support organizations that are community-led, prioritize building power within marginalized communities, dismantle structural racism, and advocate for policy change. The Foundation emphasizes that it values collaboration and co-creation, and it seeks to fund partners aligned with these principles to advance health outcomes in Howard County and greater Maryland.
This grant opportunity addresses the alarming levels of food insecurity within Howard County, particularly among Black/African American and Hispanic residents, who face disproportionately high rates of chronic food insecurity. The 2024 Howard County Health Assessment Survey revealed that 20% of residents are chronically food insecure, contributing to rising rates of chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes. Food insecurity is especially prevalent in areas like Columbia, Elkridge, and Laurel, highlighting the need for targeted, systemic solutions beyond emergency food aid.
Through this grant, the Foundation aims to strengthen the Healthier Choices Coalition, which has already achieved policy wins like the launch of the Roving Radish Mobile Food Market and partnerships with the local school system to improve school meals. Successful applicants will be expected to actively engage in Coalition activities, help shape policy priorities, grow the coalition's network, and advocate for systemic changes to improve food security and health equity.
Grant awards will range from $15,000 to $20,000 for a one-year term beginning January 1, 2026, and ending December 31, 2026. Funding is flexible and designed to support general operations, enabling grantees to act innovatively and sustainably. Selected grantees will also participate in a collaborative learning journey including racial equity and anti-racism coaching, community organizing training, and ongoing technical assistance.
Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits or have a fiscal sponsor with that designation. Applications must be submitted through the Foundation’s online grants system by November 17, 2025, at 11:59 PM ET. Notifications will be sent by November 25, 2025. For questions, applicants may contact Dr. Glenn Schneider at gschneider@thehorizonfoundation.org or Kenitra Fokwa at kfokwa@thehorizonfoundation.org.
Demonstrate clear alignment with racial equity, systemic change, and coalition engagement goals.
