Franciscan Health has received funds to support healthcare-related programs for non-profit, health and human service organizations in at-risk communities, which will be allocated through Franciscan’s Social Impact Partnership Program (SIPP).

SIPP funding applications will be accepted until May 31, 2024. Partner agencies will be announced in mid-July. Organizations may apply for up to $10,000 in monetary support and in-kind donations. Organizations may complete an application online at www.franciscanhealth.org/communityhealth.

Qualified non-profit agencies must benefit vulnerable populations in communities served by Franciscan Health with a preference toward areas with high Area Deprivation Index scores identified on BroadStreet, a digital platform that tracks community health statistics. Franciscan Health is a partner of BroadStreet and is providing free, limited access to the portal at www.broadstreet.io.

Serving populations most in need in accordance with Franciscan’s mission should be the focus of supported activities. These include people who have endured systemic racism, refugees and immigrants, chronically low resources, at-risk youth and others impacted by poor societal supports. Priority health needs, as defined by Franciscan Health’s Needs assessment (available at www.franciscanhealth.org/communityhealth), include access to healthcare, food insecurity, house stability, social bridging, mental health and substance abuse.

Organizations selected to receive funding must participate in an orientation session on July 31 and will be expected to submit progress reports at six-month and one-year intervals. Participation in the reporting process is required for consideration of any future funding or assistance.

“This cornerstone initiative by Franciscan Health is aimed at creating strong partnerships with community organizations to enhance the health and wellbeing of those we are privileged to serve,” said Caitlin Leahy, senior vice president for the Franciscan Health Foundation and Community Health Improvement. “Our purpose is to drive sustainable change and empower our communities to lead healthier lives. Focusing on our most vulnerable populations, we are committed to collaborating, supporting and providing the necessary resources to address critical health challenges.”

For more information about the SIPP and assistance in applying for monetary support, contact Franciscan Health Community Health Improvement Director Danielle Crowder at Danielle.Crowder@franciscanalliance.org.