Creating Healthy Communities Continuation Solicitation

The Ohio Department of Health (ODH), through its Bureau of Health Improvement and Wellness, is offering continuation funding for the Creating Healthy Communities (CHC) Program under the CC26 Solicitation for the budget period October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2026. This initiative, funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Preventive Health and Health Services Block Grant, aims to address health disparities and improve population health through the implementation of policy, systems, and environmental (PSE) strategies that enhance access to healthy food and active living opportunities. This continuation opportunity is available exclusively to currently funded CHC projects from the 2025 grant year. Eligible applicants must have submitted all required reports, must not owe funds to ODH, and must submit complete applications electronically through the Grants Management Information System (GMIS) by 4 p.m. on Monday, May 5, 2025. Applications submitted via fax, mail, or hand delivery will not be accepted. New users must complete GMIS training, and submission of the application confirms agreement with the ODH Grants Administration Policies and Procedures (OGAPP) and program-specific guidelines outlined in the original competitive solicitation. A total of approximately $3,150,000 will be awarded to up to 31 subrecipient agencies. Each subrecipient may apply for the amount they were awarded under the CC25 Notice of Award, with no individual grant being less than $30,000. Funds may be used to support a wide array of expenses related to personnel, equipment, contracts, travel, and supplies necessary for the program, but may not be used for activities such as political lobbying, entertainment, inpatient services, or permanent infrastructure improvements like sidewalks and trails. Applicants must submit updates including a program narrative, revised work plans aligned with SMART objectives, budget justification, and documentation of activities aimed at reducing health disparities. Specific application attachments and reports are required, including compliance forms, civil rights surveys, audit documents, and SAM.gov registration. CHC projects are required to designate a lead coordinator and engage with community stakeholders, particularly in defined priority communities facing significant health disparities. Evaluation will focus on progress made, community engagement, and alignment with goals such as those set in Healthy People 2030. Required reporting includes quarterly program and expenditure reports, monthly reimbursement reports, and a final expenditure report due by November 5, 2026. Key contact for questions is Sarah Ginnetti, available at sarah.ginnetti@odh.ohio.gov or 614-728-6937.

Applicants are encouraged to align workplans with community engagement, use CHC templates, and consult technical resources