Best School Health Grants in New Jersey

The Achelis and Bodman Foundation, established in 2015, focuses on grantmaking in New York City and northern New Jersey, addressing critical issues in six program areas: Arts and Culture, Education, Employment, Health, Public Policy, and Youth and Families. Emphasizing support for nonprofit organizations that are tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3), the Foundation aims to improve local communities through impactful grants while prioritizing accountability and excellence in various sectors.

The Connelly Foundation Grant, established in 1955, aims to create access and opportunities for those in need, particularly in the Philadelphia area. Focused on education, human services, and cultural initiatives, it supports nonprofits that enhance Catholic education, address essential needs, and promote civic engagement. The Foundation seeks to partner with organizations demonstrating effective leadership and sustainable practices, while avoiding direct grants to individuals or funding for advocacy and charter schools.

The H. Hovnanian Family Foundation Grant supports the Armenian community in Armenia and the U.S., focusing on Monmouth and Ocean Counties, New Jersey. The Foundation prioritizes education, healthcare, arts, and youth development through grants to registered non-profits. Proposals should demonstrate sustainability and community impact, with favorable consideration given to projects that engage local stakeholders and foster collaboration. Applications are accepted year-round, with a maximum funding limit of $10,000 for operational expenses.

The Edward W. and Stella C. Van Houten Memorial Fund Grant, established in 1978 in New Jersey, supports health, education, and human services. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt to apply, with a deadline of August 1 for September meetings. The foundation prioritizes agencies serving sick or disabled individuals, orphaned children, and those in the nursing profession. Scholarships and educational initiatives are also funded, benefiting Bergen and Passaic Counties.

The Turrell Fund Grant focuses on supporting organizations that serve children and families, particularly in Vermont and New Jersey. Emphasizing early childhood development, K-12 education, and access to arts and social services, the fund aims to address systemic barriers and promote equity. Priority is given to initiatives that foster systemic change and advocate for policy improvements, ensuring every child has access to quality education and resources necessary for a strong start in life.

The Bayer Fund Health & Wellness Grant Program aims to support organizations that provide education and resources for patients and caregivers facing cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Grants focus on assisting communities, particularly the African American population, in managing these health issues. Funding covers educational services, disease awareness, and access to care, with all activities to commence post-funding decisions. Eligible organizations must hold a 501(c)(3) status and operate within 55 miles of Bayer sites.

The Civic Science Media Project Grants, offered by Montclair State University's Center for Cooperative Media, aim to enhance local journalism and foster collaboration between scientists and media. With up to $15,000 available for each of the 10 awards, projects should promote community engagement in scientific discourse, focusing on pressing issues like climate change and public health. This initiative encourages diverse participation, ensuring that local voices shape the narrative and enhance public understanding of science.

The Mary Owen Borden Foundation, established in 1934, focuses on supporting disadvantaged youth in New Jersey's Mercer and Monmouth counties. The foundation provides grants averaging $10,000, with a maximum of $15,000, to nonprofit organizations addressing critical needs such as health, education, and counseling. It emphasizes local impact and requires organizations to demonstrate efficient use of funds. This commitment to enhancing community welfare reflects its founding principles and ongoing dedication to improving lives.

The Community Facilities Grant Program in New Jersey offers essential funding to develop community facilities in rural areas, supporting projects that serve local populations. Eligible areas include rural communities with populations under 20,000. Funds may be used for purchasing, constructing, or improving facilities that deliver vital services, such as health care, education, and public safety. This program aims to enhance community infrastructure and support underserved populations throughout the state.

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 Edna G. Kynett Memorial Foundation Grant supports initiatives that enhance cardiovascular health in the Delaware Valley. Established in 1954, it funds community health, professional education, and research programs targeting high-risk and underserved populations. The Foundation prioritizes innovative proposals focused on prevention and sustainable health improvements, particularly for children and adults. Grants typically do not exceed $50,000 and cover direct program expenses. Eligible applicants include public entities and 501(c)(3) organizations.

The Mental Health Screening in Schools-Year 3 program, funded by the New Jersey Department of Education, aims to support Local Education Agencies (LEAs) in implementing depression screening for students in grades seven to twelve. This initiative provides essential resources to identify at-risk students and promote mental health awareness. With funding ranging from $66,909 to $90,264, the program seeks to enhance academic performance and well-being among students, with the project period running from January 1, 2026, to December 31, 2026.

The Environment Pillar Award by Honda supports nonprofit organizations and schools in the U.S. focused on sustainability. Grants aim to reduce environmental impact through programs in decarbonization, clean energy, and efficient resource use. Eligible projects must align with Honda's mission and primarily benefit communities where Honda associates live and work. Organizations can apply for up to two grants, provided they meet specific eligibility criteria, including tax-exempt status under the IRS.

Statement of Purpose

The New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) is announcing the availability of funds for the Fluoride Varnish, Children’s Education and Screenings (FACES) grant. The overarching goal of the FACES program is to promote good oral health practices for school aged children through application of fluoride varnish as an oral health preventive measure via a voluntary school-based program. Additionally, this grant offers the opportunity to participate in the New Jersey Department of Health Basic Screening Survey for specified populations.

The infrastructure for this initiative will support new or existing programs in building preventive oral health services, including education programs and Fluoride varnish application for school aged children to promote the importance of oral health. The FACES program will coordinate and implement activities and strategies to address oral health issues affecting children from pre-K through grade 12. These efforts will be guided by a community needs assessment that identifies children at high risk for developing dental decay and other oral health problems.

Although the primary target population for this grant is school-aged children, other vulnerable groups at higher risk for dental decay—such as elderly individuals residing in assisted living or nursing homes, or pregnant women of lower socioeconomic status—will also be eligible to receive fluoride varnish as an evidence-based preventive measure. The decision to include additional at-risk populations should be made by the State Dental Director or the Program Management Officer, at the request of the applicant.

The program will utilize the Basic Screening Survey (BSS) to better understand the existing oral health status of specific populations. The BSS is a best practice recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Association of State and Territorial Dental Directors (ASTDD).

The Leo Niessen, Jr. Charitable Trust Grant supports qualified 501(c)(3) organizations engaged in charitable, religious, scientific, literary, or educational activities. Established from a testamentary bequest in 1993, the trust honors Leo Niessen's philanthropic legacy, particularly benefiting Holy Redeemer Hospital and Red Cloud Indian School. While there are no geographic restrictions, preference is given to organizations in Southeastern Pennsylvania and Southern New Jersey. The foundation does not support endowment requests.

The John Ben Snow Memorial Trust Grant supports educational programs and initiatives that assist individuals demonstrating financial need. Founded in 1975, it prioritizes funding for organizations that enhance educational opportunities, arts, culture, and community initiatives, particularly for youth and disadvantaged populations. The Trust encourages proposals from 501(c)(3) organizations, with grants typically ranging from $10,000 to $20,000. It also considers limited proposals in disabilities, environmental protection, and historic preservation, focusing on educational impact.

The NJ Citizenship and Integration Program aims to enhance citizenship preparation services for lawful permanent residents. It focuses on improving English proficiency, U.S. history knowledge, and civic understanding while providing assistance for naturalization applications. With a funding limit of $80,000, the program supports initiatives that promote cultural integration, leadership development, and access to essential legal services, fostering inclusive communities throughout New Jersey.

The NJ Community Service Grant Programs, managed by the Center for Hispanic Policy, Research, and Development, aim to enhance the quality of life for New Jersey's Hispanic community. The program focuses on empowering organizations through funding in areas like community service, health, and workforce development. New applicants are advised to register early and can apply for multiple funding categories, promoting initiatives that address educational enrichment, health risks, and senior assistance.

The NJ Hispanic Entrepreneurship Assistance Grant Program supports the growth of Hispanic businesses by providing culturally relevant education and mentorship. Managed by the Center for Hispanic Policy, Research and Development (CHPRD), this initiative aims to empower new entrepreneurs and enhance community development. Eligible applicants can seek funding for multiple programs, focusing on enhancing public-private partnerships and training opportunities. This grant is essential for fostering economic stability within the Hispanic community, promoting leadership, and ensuring long-term success.

The NJ Workforce Development Supportive Services Program aims to enhance employment opportunities for adults and dislocated workers, particularly within the Latino community. This initiative focuses on job readiness, placement, and support services to foster economic self-sufficiency. By partnering with community organizations, the program seeks to equip participants with vital skills and resources, ultimately promoting long-term employment success and community engagement.

The NJ Youth Workforce Investment Grant Program aims to provide essential workforce experience services to at-risk youth, including those in foster care, homeless youth, and English Language Learners. The program focuses on improving workplace behavior, developing personal attributes, and equipping participants with the skills necessary for employment and career advancement. By fostering public/private partnerships, the initiative seeks to enhance training and employment opportunities for the Hispanic community in New Jersey.

The NJ Health and Wellness Programs aim to enhance the well-being of families in crisis through mental health services and family violence prevention. Managed by the New Jersey Center for Hispanic Policy, Research, and Development, these programs focus on strengthening resilience, providing essential support, and connecting families with community resources. Applicants can seek funding from multiple categories including health and wellness initiatives, aiming to address domestic violence and mental health challenges effectively.

The Freedom School Planning Grants, offered by the New Jersey Office of Faith Based Initiatives, aim to support organizations launching NJ Freedom Schools. These grants assist in developing organizational capacity and recruiting certified teachers to help students struggling academically. Additionally, they provide resources for a parent academy focused on employment readiness, mental health services, and connecting families to community resources, ultimately fostering academic success and community engagement.

The Cigna Group Foundation is launching the Improving Youth Mental Health Grant, committing $9 million over three years to enhance mental health support for youth aged five to 18. This initiative targets post-pandemic challenges, offering resources to parents, caregivers, and youth service professionals. Nonprofits are encouraged to apply for funding between $100,000 and $150,000 to develop programs that promote social-emotional skills, enhance caregiver support, and improve access to mental health interventions in underserved communities.

The Frank S. Flowers Charitable Trust, established in 1979, aims to enhance the quality of life in Gloucester County, New Jersey. It provides grants to educational, health-related, youth, and religious organizations that meet specific criteria. With an average grant size of $10,000 and around 20 grants awarded each year, the Trust prioritizes support for local public high schools, non-profit hospitals, and organizations focused on the welfare of mentally disabled children.

The Gladys Brooks Foundation supports innovative projects in libraries, education, hospitals, and clinics. Grants focus on resource endowments, capital construction, and equipment aimed at improving public access to information and educational resources. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations located in specific states and demonstrate that projects will be funded primarily by the grant. Applications for direct salary support or research projects are not accepted.

The Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers Program provides opportunities for New Jersey communities to enhance academic enrichment and support for students in grades three through twelve. This competitive grant program encourages organizations to offer a variety of services, including tutoring, youth development, and family engagement initiatives. Eligible entities include non-profits, schools, and local government agencies, aiming to address the needs of students in low-performing schools.