The Health Needs of Smith County Fund was created as part of the Kansas Health Foundation’s GROW II matching grant challenge and aims to improve public health within Smith County. Grants from this fund support initiatives that protect and promote individual and community health by fostering healthy lifestyles, behaviors, and environments. The fund is also supported by the Kansas Health Foundation Fund for Smith County, enhancing its capacity to address local health needs.
Eligible applicants for these grants include 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, government entities, and religious organizations. For those who do not fall under these categories, it is recommended to collaborate with a fiscal agent that does qualify. In cases where this is not possible, applicants are advised to contact the community foundation directly to determine if their project is still eligible, potentially with additional reporting requirements. Grants are generally awarded to projects that serve Smith County or are aligned with the geographical areas supported by the foundation.
The fund supports a variety of needs, including programs and projects that serve the community or further an organization’s mission. Funding is also available for seed money to launch new initiatives, covering operational expenses, and for capacity-building activities like professional development, purchasing equipment, or hiring staff for new programs. Capital improvements, such as construction or renovation of facilities, can also be funded. Endowment funds are considered for long-term organizational support, though these requests are less likely to be prioritized unless tied to a specific initiative.
Certain types of requests are ineligible for consideration, such as incomplete or late applications, politically motivated projects, organizations that practice discrimination, and proposals for covering operating deficits or retiring debt. Projects that have already been completed or funded will not be considered.
The grant application process is conducted online through the community foundation's grant system. There are two funding cycles each year: a fall cycle, with applications accepted between September 15 and November 15, and a spring cycle, open from February 15 to April 15. Applicants are encouraged to ensure their submissions are complete and in line with the fund’s guidelines to increase their chances of success.
