SHIP Funding Available for Projects That Improve Community Health

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SHIP Funding Available for Projects That Improve Community Health

            Anoka County Public Health is once again offering an opportunity for neighborhoods and community organizations to submit project proposals for Statewide Health Improvement Partnership (SHIP) funding designed to help improve the health of area residents.

            The funding, which will be given in the form of SHIP Partner Awards of up to $3,000 per project proposal, is designed to increase sustainable opportunities to improve community health through healthy eating, increased physical activity, and reduced commercial tobacco use. Examples of the types of projects the funding could be used for include expanding access to fresh fruits and vegetables, organizing a bike share program, or offering tobacco-free/vaping-free resources and support.

Past projects have been successful at helping to improve health in Anoka County. Last year, a SHIP Community Partner Award was provided to the Church of All Nations to purchase a new refrigerator. This critical addition enhanced the church's efforts to provide fresh, nutritious food to more than 120 community members throughout the year.  The new refrigerator enabled the Church of All Nations to store produce for longer periods while maintaining food health and safety standards. This improvement has significantly bolstered their ability to meet the growing needs of the community. A dedicated team of community members collaborates to make this initiative successful, from picking up food donations and packing the fridge to publicizing the availability of fresh produce and composting any unused items that are no longer viable. This teamwork exemplifies the community's commitment to reducing food waste and increasing access to fresh, healthy foods for all.

            Applications for this funding will be accepted now through March 14, 2025. The application, instructions, and more information on the awards can be found at https://www.anokacountymn.gov/3820/Community-Partner-Awards. Entities applying for the grants do not need to be registered organizations, but they should be consistent, sustainable groups within a neighborhood or community.

            SHIP is a state-based program that promotes health and wellness in Anoka County by forming partnerships with organizations located throughout the county to expand opportunities for active living, healthy eating, and commercial tobacco-free living.

Further questions about the grants can be directed to SHIP@anokacountymn.gov or

763-324-4343.