1. Economic stability:
Being healthy is difficult without money for healthy food, housing or medical care.
Blue & You Foundation funds $1 million in social determinants of health grants
- Kennedy Kinley
- June 14, 2024
The conditions in which you are born, grow, live and work – known as social determinants of health – can impact your overall health. That’s why the Blue & You Foundation for a Healthier Arkansas is funding programs addressing issues such as safe housing, transportation, education, job opportunities and access to nutritious foods.
At the Blue & You Foundation, we understand the importance of whole-person health. We are committed to supporting organizations impacting the well-being of Arkansans through social determinants of health by providing healthy foods, economic support and safe housing.
- Rebecca Pittillo, president, Blue & You Foundation
What are the 5 social determinants of health?
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2. Neighborhoods and safe housing:
Living in safe, clean areas with parks, stores,
and public transport is vital for health. -
3. Healthcare access:
In remote areas, accessing quality healthcare can be challenging.
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4. Access to quality education:
Access to early education, literacy programs, and higher education boosts a community’s health.
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5. Social and community context:
Having good relationships at home, work, and in the community can promote healthy lifestyles.
Social determinants of health grantees
The following programs represent the 14 grantees funded by the Foundation to address social determinants of health. You can see all the grantees here.
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Restore Hope’s collaborative care teams will help families in crisis move to careers, by connecting them with community resources. Photo courtesy of Restore Hope. -
The Northwest Arkansas Food Bank’s mobile pantry program will deliver nutritious food to senior centers and housing developments, offering 4.5 meals for every $1 invested. Photo courtesy of Northwest Arkansas Food Bank. -
The EAST Initiative will start new programs in three underfunded schools in different counties of the Delta. Photo courtesy of EAST Initiative.
2024 Behavioral Health Grants: Letters of intent due July 12
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1 in 5 people will experience a mental illness in a given year. The Blue & You Foundation is committed to funding organizations working to improve behavioral health and mental health for Arkansans.
Important dates for this grant cycle are:
- July 1: Letters of intent open
- July 12: Letters of intent deadline
- November 5: Award announcements
Mini-grants
The Blue & You Foundation also awards mini grants throughout the year that focus on:
- School health initiatives
- Food pantry support
- Injury prevention
- Emergency response equipment
Visit the Blue & You Foundation website for more information