Louisiana Healthcare Connections accepting applications for 2021 Community Health Grants

Date: 06/14/21

Up to $100,000 in grant funds available for non-profits, healthcare providers, schools to address food insecurity

Baton Rouge, La. - Louisiana Healthcare Connections announced today the opening of its 2021 Community Health Grants cycle, which will invest awards up to $20,000 each to Louisiana organizations working to address food insecurity at the community level.

Healthcare providers, schools, and non-profit community organizations across the state are encouraged to apply. Applications must be received no later than 11:59 p.m. on July 24, 2021. Grant awards will be announced in September.

Defined by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) as a lack of access to enough food for an active, healthy life, food insecurity is an issue that affects every parish in Louisiana. According to Hunger Free America’s 2017 National Report on Hunger, approximately 20 percent of the state’s population is classified as food insecure. The report also found that Louisiana has the second highest rate of food insecure children, and the highest rate of food insecure seniors, in the nation.

The grants aim to invest in projects that improve access to food and nutrition for Louisiana’s Medicaid population. “The impact of hunger on health outcomes is non-sustainable for our state,” says Jamie Schlottman, CEO and Plan President. “Partnerships with community and healthcare organizations are key to helping us combat food insecurity. By working together, we can increase access to healthy foods, reduce hunger and improve health for Louisiana families.”

Additional information about this initiative as well as the Community Health Grants RFP are available on the organization’s website, www.louisianahealthconnect.com/about-us/community/community-health-grants.html. Questions may be directed to CommunityGrants@LouisianaHealthConnect.com.