Grants are our most prolific way to make an impact in the community
The Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation (Health Foundation) has announced we have awarded fourteen grants totaling over $1.4 million in the 2023 Grant Cycle. The Health Foundation has a strong commitment to funding lasting solutions aimed at the following strategic focus areas: Health, Access to Healthcare, and Behavioral and Mental Health. The grants awarded in the 2023 cycle will help to ensure that all people have access to primary healthcare services regardless of financial status and address crucial mental health concerns, particularly among our youth.
Grants were provided to AWAKE, Blue Ridge Health, Boys and Girls Club of the Plateau, Community Care Clinic of Franklin, Counseling Center of Highlands, HIGHTS, Jackson County Department of Social Services, Jackson County Public Schools, Life Challenge, Macon County Public Schools, Plateau Behavioral Health Collaborative, Summit Charter School, The Catamount School at Western Carolina University, and Vecinos.
“The Foundation is in its fifth year of dedicated service to enhancing the health and well-being of Highlands, Cashiers, and the surrounding communities,” said Dr. Barbara Corcoran, Health Foundation Board Chair. “These 2023 grants further solidify our commitment to supporting and fostering impactful initiatives that tackle health concerns throughout our region.”
Of the fourteen grants awarded, seven provide direct support for behavioral and mental health initiatives for the youth in our community. These grants will be utilized to fund a range of programs and services that address the unique healthcare needs of our youth. Mental health professionals, school nurses, prevention programs, foster family counseling, and support for at-risk youth are just a few examples of the initiatives that will be supported through these grants. Additional grant awards included support for expanded access to healthcare and chronic disease management assistance for uninsured patients.
Since its inception on February 1, 2019, the Health Foundation’s investments have totaled more than 100 grants that delivered $10.4 million to 75 organizations throughout our communities. These grants have made a significant and lasting impact on the lives of our citizens and help ensure that every person in our community has access to the care they need.
“Being a part of our Health Foundation’s grant-making initiatives over the past five years has been an inspiring and fulfilling experience,” said Robin Tindall, Health Foundation CEO and Executive Director. “I especially appreciate the commitment and tireless work of our Grants Committee as they spend countless hours in their review and evaluation of grant applications. We can also be very proud of the exceptional work and passion of our non-profit organizations as we all work together in the spirit of collaboration.”
