Samaritan Health Services is accepting applications for its annual Social Accountability grants, offering up to $200,000 in funding for local nonprofits working to improve community health across Benton, Lincoln and Linn counties.

The healthcare system has been supporting community health initiatives through the grants since 1997 while focusing on projects that address the region’s most pressing health needs.

“Our region faces many pressing health needs that have been identified by a collaboration of community partners,” Paulina Kaiser, director of Community Health and Research at Samaritan, said through a press release. “For this upcoming funding cycle, our desire is to help leverage resources and foster partnerships for a more cohesive and sustainable approach across the region.”

Organizations interested in applying can attend a virtual information session on Sept. 23 from 3-4 p.m. via Microsoft Teams. The session will provide details about the application process and funding priorities.

To be eligible, applicants must be governmental agencies, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, or coalitions operating in and serving Benton, Lincoln and Linn counties. Applications are due Nov. 7.

According to Samaritan, this year’s funding priorities align with the Regional Community Health Improvement Plan and include four key areas:

  • Affordable housing access: Projects that improve housing stability and access to safe, affordable housing.
  • Quality care access: Programs that enhance access to essential health services.
  • Behavioral health: Initiatives focused on mental and emotional well-being and community resilience.
  • Inclusion, diversity, anti-racism and equity: Programs that create more inclusive and equitable community environments

The Regional Community Health Improvement Plan, which outlines these priority areas in detail, is available at lblpartnershipforhealth.org.

Organizations planning to apply should contact communityhealth@samhealth.org to receive the invitation to the information session and the complete request for proposal packet.

For more information about the grant program, call 541-768-5256 or email communityhealth@samhealth.org.