Best Grants for Public Health in Kansas

BOK Charitable Contributions aims to enhance community life and economic wellbeing across several states, focusing on four key pillars: United Way, economic development, education, and basic needs. The foundation supports organizations that address poverty, education, and community health. Their strategic approach ensures impactful contributions, and they welcome grant applications year-round. BOK Financial's commitment is evident in its partnerships with local nonprofits, fostering sustainable growth and development in the regions they serve.

The Rapid Equity Fund is back! For the second year, REACH Healthcare Foundation, in partnership with Wyandotte Health Foundation, will provide flexible funding to meet urgent needs of grassroots, nonprofit organizations.

This grantmaking initiative provides eligible Black, Brown, Immigrant, Refugee, and rural-serving nonprofit organizations up to $10,000 of unrestricted funds. The Rapid Equity Fund is aimed at accelerating the grant award process, thereby creating more funding avenues for grassroots organizations that serve highly vulnerable populations.

The REACH Healthcare Foundation is dedicated to enhancing health coverage and access to affordable care for uninsured and underserved individuals across a six-county area in Kansas and Missouri. The foundation prioritizes funding in primary care, mental health, and health equity, focusing on collaborations that align with its mission. Organizations eligible for grants must be tax-exempt and meet specific criteria to ensure equitable health outcomes in the community.

The Helen S. Boylan Foundation, established in 1982, aims to enhance community life in Carthage, Missouri, the Greater Kansas City Area, and Lindale, Texas. It provides quarterly grants to non-profit organizations focused on arts, education, health, and wellness. The foundation prioritizes innovative projects and multi-year funding for initiatives benefiting local citizens. Eligible recipients include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, while grants for individuals or sectarian activities are excluded. Proposals should focus on new initiatives or capital improvements.

The Phillips County Unrestricted Endowment Fund offers a matching grant to support fundraising events for non-profits serving Phillips County, Kansas. With a match of $1 for every dollar raised, up to $50,000, this initiative encourages community investment in local projects. Eligible projects include enhancements to public spaces, health care initiatives, educational programs, and efforts to improve public health and safety. Grants are available monthly, promoting collaboration and growth within the community.

The Regional Touring Grant Program, funded by the Mid-America Arts Alliance, supports organizations in the M-AAA region to showcase touring artists from outside their state. Grants up to $5,000 are available, with organizations eligible for matching funds and the capacity to submit multiple applications. Projects are designed to enhance arts programming and engage underserved audiences through public-facing events, including performances and outreach activities. This initiative aims to foster cultural exchange and deepen community connections through the arts.

The Penn National Gaming Foundation Grants support various community initiatives across North America, emphasizing education, health services, and cultural affairs. Launched post-Hurricane Katrina, the foundation aids local nonprofits, enhancing community development, public safety, and veteran support. The grants cater to organizations that address the needs of children, senior citizens, and disadvantaged populations, ensuring a broad impact in areas where Penn National Gaming operates. This commitment reflects the foundation's dedication to uplifting communities and fostering resilience.

The DCCF LiveWell Community Wellness Grants aim to enhance the health of Douglas County residents by promoting healthy eating and active lifestyles. These grants support projects that align with the 2018-2023 Douglas County Community Health Plan, focusing on food security and healthy environments. Organizations can receive funding to implement policy changes or programs that foster collaboration and community health improvement, with grants ranging from $1,000 to $80,000.

Kansas Housing Resources Corporation

Kansas Housing Resources Corporation (KHRC) is a self-supporting, nonprofit, public corporation that serves as the primary administrator of federal housing programs for the state of Kansas. KHRC delivers solutions to those who are working to end the housing crisis in Kansas. The corporation’s vision can only be achieved when all Kansans have the support and resources they need to achieve their goals, no matter where they are in their housing journey.

CSBG Discretionary Grant

Kansas Housing Resources Corporation (KHRC) establishes guidelines for the awarding of discretionary grants as authorized by the Kansas Community Services Block Grant (CSBG). The primary intended use of the grant funds awarded to Kansas and to subgrantees is “to provide assistance to local communities in Kansas, working through a network of Community Action Agencies and other neighborhood-based organizations, for the reduction of poverty, the revitalization of low-income communities, and the empowerment of low-income families and individuals in rural and urban areas to become fully self-sufficient.”

CSBG Purpose and Goals

• Promoting maximum participation of people and communities with low-income
• Leveraging resources of other anti-poverty programs
• Strengthening community capabilities for planning or coordinating resources for local needs and conditions of poverty
• Using innovative approaches to address causes and conditions of poverty
• Measuring impact to ensure accountability and ongoing data-driven quality improvement 

As outlined with the FFY 2025-2026 CSBG State Plan, this RFP seeks proposals for: 1) Innovative Programs/Activities or 2) Training/Technical Assistance

Applicants are advised that direct services funded by CSBG are restricted to Kansas residents. with household incomes that fall at or below 200 percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines

Innovative Projects

For the purposes of this funding opportunity, proposals will be considered “innovative” if they:

• Support a project that is new to the agency and/or
• Support a modification to an existing project to make it more effective or efficient and/or
• Address an unmet need of the agency or community and/or
• Support a collaboration that addresses poverty in their communities.

Applicants should describe how the proposed project is an effective approach to ameliorate the causes and effects of poverty. Project descriptions should include the applicant’s plan to sustain the proposed project. CSBG programs often include addressing employment, education, income management, housing, nutrition, emergency services and/or health to combat the central causes of poverty.

Greater Salina Community Foundation

Our mission is to build permanent endowment funds and meet charitable community needs. The Foundation achieves its mission by:

• Enabling donors to fulfill their charitable desires
• Increasing the capacity of nonprofit organizations to fulfill their individual missions
• Facilitating prudent management and care of funds
• Promoting community philanthropy through education
• Providing affiliate services to neighboring communities
• Meeting needs through grants, scholarships, and pass-through funds

Solomon Valley Community Foundation

Through our grant-making efforts, Solomon Valley Community Foundation supports area nonprofits in their mission to create positive change. From funding essential programs to supporting new initiatives, we're committed to strengthening our communities and helping local organizations thrive. Together, we can make a lasting change.

SVCF Competitive Grants

Solomon Valley Community Foundation's bi-annual grants are available to all nonprofit organizations, government and public entities, educational institutions, and churches located within Mitchell County. Grants are awarded through a competitive application process.

Funding Sources

Funding is made possible by the Dane G. Hansen Community Grant Fund and the SVCF Community Impact Fund.

The Hansen Foundation has partnered with community foundations throughout the Northwest Kansas region to help improve the quality of life for communities in the region. As a result, SVCF is allocated funding from the Hansen Foundation to help support grant-making within Mitchell County. This funding can be used to support projects or programs that address the following:

• Education: Enhances the learning environment and expands opportunities for students. Provides increased self-reliance on personal life skills and workforce capability.
• Health Care: Ensures access to quality health services and promotes healthy life practices.
• Community Social Services & Security: Enhances access to social services needed for individuals of special needs and supports systems to provide community disaster relief and general community emergencies.
• Conservation & Environment: Supports efforts to improve and maintain high air and water quality, appreciation for our natural environment, and enhances economic and social benefits of outdoor resources.
• Arts & Culture: Provides cultural and artistic opportunities to enhance the quality of life for local residents and to encourage tourism and the exchange of ideas.
• Community Beautification: Supports efforts to improve and maintain public spaces to enhance community pride and encourage socialization among residents.

The Dane G. Hansen Foundation, in collaboration with the Greater Salina Community Foundation, offers community grants aimed at enhancing life quality in North Central Kansas. These grants prioritize projects in education, health care, social services, conservation, arts, and community beautification. Notably, preference is given to initiatives fostering community involvement and volunteerism, while excluding funding for tax-supported programs or general operational expenses.

The GSCF Kansas Health Foundation Fund supports public health initiatives in Saline County, KS, focusing on healthy lifestyles and preventative programs. Grants are available to 501(c)(3) nonprofits, educational institutions, government entities, and religious organizations. The fund seeks projects that enhance community health and well-being, offering seed money, capacity building, and capital improvements, while excluding healthcare for the ill and political initiatives. For more information, visit the Kansas Health Foundation's website.

The Kerr Foundation Inc. offers grants to 501(c)3 organizations, focusing on education, arts, health, and human services. Priority is given to Oklahoma entities, but applications from neighboring states and Washington D.C. are also accepted. The foundation supports various project types, including capital, program, and operating expenses. Note that back-to-back grants are not allowed, enforcing a three-year gap for reapplication after funding. This ensures a broad and impactful reach for community development.

The Mabee Foundation provides challenge grants for projects in Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Arkansas, Missouri, and Kansas, primarily focusing on construction, renovation, and major medical equipment purchases. Organizations must raise 40% of project costs from other donors before applying. Grants can reach up to 20% of total costs, with a maximum of $2 million. Applications are considered quarterly, requiring submissions by specific deadlines for review at upcoming board meetings.

The Community Facilities Grant Program in Kansas provides essential funding to develop crucial community facilities in rural areas, enhancing quality of life. Eligible entities include public bodies and non-profits in areas with populations under 20,000. Funding can cover construction, improvement, or equipment purchases for facilities such as health care centers, community support services, and educational institutions. This program aims to support rural development, ensuring access to necessary services for all residents.

The Dane G. Hansen Community Grant supports charitable projects in Northwest Kansas, providing $50,000 annually for community initiatives. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and educational institutions in specified counties. Grants aim to enhance education, healthcare, economic development, and social services while prioritizing community engagement. The program, managed by the Greater Northwest Kansas Community Foundation, will conclude in 2025, encouraging diverse projects that promote local well-being and sustainability.

Greater Salina Community Foundation

Our mission is to build permanent endowment funds and meet charitable community needs. The Foundation achieves its mission by:

• Enabling donors to fulfill their charitable desires
• Increasing the capacity of nonprofit organizations to fulfill their individual missions
• Facilitating prudent management and care of funds
• Promoting community philanthropy through education
• Providing affiliate services to neighboring communities
• Meeting needs through grants, scholarships, and pass-through funds

Ottawa County Public Health Fund

The Ottawa County Public Health Fund was established in response to the Kansas Health Foundation’s second chapter of the Giving Resources to our World (GROW II) match grant challenge.

Grants from this fund support the public health of Ottawa County. Public health is defined as the protection and promotion of the health and well-being of individuals and their communities through encouragement of healthy lifestyles, behaviors and environments.

Funding for this grant is also supported by the Kansas Health Foundation Fund for Ottawa County.

What type of support is funded?

• Projects or programs that serve the community and/or advance the mission of the organization
• Seed money to establish or initiate a new project, program, or organization, including operating expenses
• Capacity building or activities that strengthen an organization to increase its ability to fulfill its mission, including technology & equipment, professional development & training, additional staff to implement a new program, etc.
• Capital improvements including new construction or renovation of a facility
• Endowment funds to provide permanent and long-term support for an organization or program

Greater Salina Community Foundation

Our mission is to build permanent endowment funds and meet charitable community needs. The Foundation achieves its mission by:

• Enabling donors to fulfill their charitable desires
• Increasing the capacity of nonprofit organizations to fulfill their individual missions
• Facilitating prudent management and care of funds
• Promoting community philanthropy through education
• Providing affiliate services to neighboring communities
• Meeting needs through grants, scholarships, and pass-through funds

Post Rock Healthy Living Fund

The Post Rock Healthy Living Fund was established in response to the Kansas Health Foundation’s second chapter of the Giving Resources to our World (GROW II) match grant challenge. Grants from this fund support the public health of Lincoln County and those served by USD 298 and 299.

Public Health is defined as the protection and promotion of the health and well-being of individuals and their communities through encouragement of healthy lifestyles, behaviors and environments.

Funding for this grant is also supported by the Kansas Health Foundation Fund for Post Rock.

What type of support is funded?

• Projects or programs that serve the community and/or advance the mission of the organization
• Seed money to establish or initiate a new project, program, or organization, including operating expenses
• Capacity building or activities that strengthen an organization to increase its ability to fulfill its mission, including technology & equipment, professional development & training, additional staff to implement a new program, etc.
• Capital improvements including new construction or renovation of a facility
• Endowment funds to provide permanent and long-term support for an organization or program

The Kansas Health Foundation Fund for Smoky Valley, managed by the Greater Salina Community Foundation, aims to enhance public health in the Smoky Valley area. It provides grants to non-profit organizations, educational institutions, and government entities to support projects that promote healthy lifestyles and community well-being. Eligible applicants can seek funding for various initiatives, including capacity building and capital improvements, fostering a healthier community through sustainable projects.

The SEED Grant program, administered by the Kansas Department of Commerce, aims to revitalize Kansas communities with populations under 5,000 through funding for quality-of-life projects. Eligible projects include childcare and senior programming, community vibrancy initiatives, food retail access, and library enhancements. Grants range from $10,000 to $25,000, requiring a 10% match and completion within 12 months. This initiative fosters economic growth and community well-being in eligible counties across Kansas.

Heartland Community Foundation: Heartland Healthy Living Fund

The Heartland Healthy Living Fund was established in response to the Kansas Health Foundation’s second chapter of the Giving Resources to our World (GROW II) match grant challenge.

What do the funds support?

• Programs and projects that support the public health of Ellis, Rooks and Trego Counties in Kansas.
  • Public health is defined as the protection and promotion of the health and well-being of individuals and their communities through encouragement of healthy lifestyles, behaviors and environments.
• Grants will be made to preventative programs/projects that support healthy living.

Greater Salina Community Foundation

Our mission is to build permanent endowment funds and meet charitable community needs. The Foundation achieves its mission by:

• Enabling donors to fulfill their charitable desires
• Increasing the capacity of nonprofit organizations to fulfill their individual missions
• Facilitating prudent management and care of funds
• Promoting community philanthropy through education
• Providing affiliate services to neighboring communities
• Meeting needs through grants, scholarships, and pass-through funds

Health Needs for Smith County Fund

The Health Needs of Smith County Fund was established in response to the Kansas Health Foundation’s second chapter of the Giving Resources to our World (GROW II) matching grant challenge. Grants from this fund support the public health of Smith County.

Public health is defined as the protection and promotion of the health and well-being of individuals and their communities through encouragement of healthy lifestyles, behaviors and environments.

Funding for this grant is also supported by the Kansas Health Foundation Fund for Smith County.

What type of support is funded?

• Projects or programs that serve the community and/or advance the mission of the organization
• Seed money to establish or initiate a new project, program, or organization, including operating expenses
• Capacity building or activities that strengthen an organization to increase its ability to fulfill its mission, including technology & equipment, professional development & training, additional staff to implement a new program, etc.
• Capital improvements including new construction or renovation of a facility
• Endowment funds to provide permanent and long-term support for an organization or program

The WKCF: Women of Purpose Grant aims to empower organizations addressing crucial issues affecting women in Western Kansas. By focusing on innovative projects that promote female leadership, mentorship, and community impact, this grant encourages collaboration and sustainability. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations serving specific Kansas counties. The foundation prioritizes initiatives that demonstrate broad community benefits and effective use of resources. Submit applications early to avoid technical issues and ensure consideration for funding.

Kansas Department of Commerce

As the state’s lead economic development agency, the Kansas Department of Commerce strives to empower individuals, businesses and communities to achieve prosperity in Kansas. Commerce accomplishes its mission by developing relationships with corporations, site location consultants and stakeholders in Kansas, the nation and world. Our strong partnerships allow us to help create an environment for existing Kansas businesses to grow and foster an innovative, competitive landscape for new businesses.

Kansas Arts Commision (KAC)| Arts Everywhere

Enhancing student success, the economy and Kansas communities through the arts

The Arts Everywhere grant program provides funding for cultural projects, programs, exhibitions, series, arts education projects, and other arts programming. This program provides funding for educational institutions, arts organizations, and community service non-profits to use the arts to increase student success, foster creative thinking, develop critical job skills, enhance community development, and increase participation in the arts across Kansas. Projects must relate to an arts and culture discipline (music, dance, theatre, creative writing, literature, painting, sculpture, folk arts, photography, crafts, media arts, visual arts, programs of museums, and other such allied, major art forms).

Match Requirements: KAC requires that all grants are matched at a minimum of 1:1 through a combination of cash and in-kind expenses.

Arts Everywhere grants are awarded in four categories:

• Arts in Education;
• Organizational Development: a) Capacity Building; b) Salary Assistance
• Specific Arts and Culture Projects; and
• Visiting Artists

Specific Arts and Culture Projects

This program is designed to fund a single cultural project, program, exhibition, or series. The grant activities must support the mission of the applicant organization, which may or may not be an arts and culture organization. Projects can take many forms. Examples of projects could include:

• A workshop
• A series of workshops
• An art exhibition
• A speaker engagement
• A festival
• An arts and health project
• Almost any arts and culture-centered project.

The Dr. George & Jeanne Tiller Fund Grant supports nonprofits in Kansas focused on advancing women's health. Since its inception, it has awarded over $1 million, emphasizing reproductive health services and education. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits in good standing. Grants range up to $25,000. The fund prioritizes projects that provide comprehensive health services, medical education, and support for women in need. Applications are subject to board approval, with specific exclusions for business expenses and advertisements.

The Courtney S. Turner Charitable Trust, established in 1978, supports public charitable and educational initiatives in the Atchison, Kansas community. Founded by Courtney S. Turner, a prominent local figure, the trust focuses on community improvement, education, health, and human services. It primarily funds 501(c)(3) organizations for specific projects with a one-year grant duration, ensuring a positive and lasting impact on the community.

The Knights of Columbus Endowment Fund, established to support the sick, disabled, and needy families in Pittsburg, Kansas, continues its mission through annual grants. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) charities, churches, schools, and government agencies. Grants support housing assistance, health services, and community improvements for vulnerable populations, ensuring their well-being and security. This initiative reflects the commitment of the Knights of Columbus to enhance the quality of life for those in need.