The two-stage application process for the Aetna Foundation’s 2018 Cultivating Healthy Communities grants closed last month, and recipients should expect to be notified of their award by July 27th. Project start dates should fall between Aug. 20 and Oct. 15, 2018.
The grants, which are awarded to nonprofit organizations with the goal of bettering the lives of underserved communities, have been used in the past to promote healthy eating by funding programs that increase the availability and affordability of fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as community garden initiatives and food budget assistance programs.
Projects can last between 18 and 24 months, with a maximum award of $100,000 for the duration. This year, applicants seeking grant funds chose from five domains centered around different areas of health and wellness:
#1 Built Environment
Programs should focus on increasing use of public spaces through additional walkable and bikeable paths and areas.
#2 Community Safety
In this area, programs should seek to collaborate with local law enforcement to address issues of public safety and public health.
#3 Environmental Exposures
Funds awarded for programs under this domain should seek to decrease community exposure to air and water contaminants, and promote increased understanding, monitoring and reporting of suspected local hazards.
#4 Healthy Behaviors
Programs should focus on increasing the community’s access and consumption of fruits and vegetables, as well as increased physical activity and stress reduction, with an emphasis on policy change.
#5 Social/Economic Factors
Funds awarded for programs under this domain should be used to increase access to healthy foods through the development of enhanced retail options, such as resident-owned businesses.
Aetna’s Cultivating Healthy Communities grant recipients will be chosen and notified by July 27th. Check back here to see the winners.