The Greater Springfield Community Health Equity Partnership is Seeking to Fund Proposals that Address Stigma as a Barrier to Access and a Harm to Mental Health
The Greater Springfield Community Health Equity Partnership (CHEP), which is coordinated by SEVCA, will be funding proposals seeking to reduce health disparities in the Springfield District of the Vermont Department of Health, as identified in its health equity challenge statement:
Stigma is a major barrier to health and wellness for residents in our community. Both actual and perceived stigma prevent many community members, including those with substance use disorder (SUD) and those experiencing mental health challenges, from accessing necessary physical and mental health care, social services, community support, housing, transport, employment, and social opportunities. Stigma is also harming many residents’ already strained mental health by negatively impacting their sense of belonging, connection, and hope, leading to feelings of isolation. These experiences and outcomes are particularly acute for our most marginalized and underserved community members.
Available Funds & Timeframe
We seek applications for projects that can be completed in the 6-month time frame of this grant period (November - May) and that address the root causes of the health disparities mentioned above. We have a total of $150,000 in one-time funding and will issue awards ranging from $5,000 to $50,000.
Request for Proposals Published – Friday, October 14, 2022
Applications Due – November 4, 2022 at 5 pm EST
Applicants Notified of Decisions – November 18, 2022
What are we doing to ensure the grantmaking process is equitable and accessible?
- Upfront payment installments to grantees - While the grant program is based on a reimbursement model, meaning that SEVCA won’t be provided funds until after they are spent, we are providing payments upfront to be inclusive of more applicants and projects.
- Simple eligibility requirements – Anyone with a plan to address the root causes of our challenge and a tax ID can apply. This includes: individuals, community groups, nonprofits, businesses, and more.
- Short and simple application & reporting – We’re looking for short, clear responses that illustrate your work. Project impact is more important to us than proposal polish or grammar.
- Multiple options & formats for applying - Applications may be submitted as a written document, through an online form, as a PowerPoint or video, or through other methods.
- Application information in multiple formats - More detailed information is available in written form here. We also held a virtual information and Q&A session on Thursday, October 27th from 4:30 - 5:30 pm. Slides from the session are available here and a video recording of the session is available here.
- Opportunities for application support - If you would like to meet one-on-one to ask questions or for support applying, please schedule a phone call or virtual meeting here.
- Community member application reviewers – Our Steering Committee, made up of community members from towns in the district, will be reviewing applications and deciding which proposals to fund.
Want more info? Request for Proposals Packet available here.
Ready to apply? Application here. See above link for other application options.
Want to help spread the word? Flyer available here.
Have questions or need support applying? Contact Kelsea Burch: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 800-464-9951 ext. 1107
Last Updated: October 27, 2022
Please note: We may find it necessary or helpful to make additions, adjustments, or corrections to the information provided. The latest version of the Request for Proposals Packet will be available on this page and we will update the date above should this occur.