Health First Wellness Grant Program

Health First is a not-for-profit healthcare system that has been dedicated to serving the wellness and health of Brevard County for the past 30 years. Committed to fostering community well-being, Health First partners with local non-profit organizations to support initiatives that address critical health and wellness needs in the region. The Wellness Grant program is a key component of this mission, aimed at promoting stronger and healthier communities through local collaboration and targeted funding. The primary objective of the Wellness Grant is to support programs that address significant disparities identified in the community through the 2024 Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA). The priority areas of focus include nutrition, physical activity, and weight management, as well as access to healthcare services. Additionally, the grant program also seeks to fund initiatives targeting food insecurity and homelessness, based on both CHNA findings and community input. Funding is designed to bolster innovative, evidence-based programs with measurable outcomes that can be sustained beyond the grant period. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations or their equivalents, with programs that directly benefit residents of Brevard County. Private schools or institutions are not eligible, as Health First supports local students through its partnership with Brevard Public Schools. Priority is given to new or expanding evidence-based programs and activities that align with the grant’s focus areas. Funding cannot be used for general operations, endowments, construction, campaigns, or debt reduction. Typical grant awards range from $10,000 to $50,000, with a maximum of $100,000 distributed over a three-year period. Grant recipients are required to submit quarterly reports to monitor progress and impact. The application process requires submission through an online portal, accessible via hf.org/givesback. Applicants must create an account, complete an eligibility form, and then proceed to the grant application. Required documents include a board of directors list, 501(c)(3) determination letter, most recent IRS Form 990, and current organizational operating budget. The application also entails providing detailed program information, including goals, measurable outcomes, sustainability plans, partnerships, and budget details. Applications are accepted from June 1 to July 15, 2025. The review and evaluation period runs from July 15 to August 22, with initial application status notifications issued on August 25. Selected organizations will present their proposals between September 15 and October 31. Award notifications will be sent by November 14, and grant agreements are due by December 1. Funding will be disbursed between January 1 and January 15, 2026. The evaluation of proposals will consider alignment with priority areas, demonstrated need, measurable outcomes, sustainability, innovation, and budget justification. Applicants can direct questions to Health First’s Community Engagement staff via email at [email protected]. The structured process and clear evaluation criteria ensure that the Wellness Grant supports impactful programs that contribute to a healthier and stronger Brevard County.

Applicants are encouraged to contact Community Engagement staff for questions and alignment assistance. Proposals will be evaluated objectively using a standardized rubric.