Where Health Matters Grant Program

The Where Health Matters Grant (WHMG) Program is part of Health New England’s overall Community Benefits Giving program that looks to advance the health and well-being of people living in the communities we serve (Berkshire, Franklin, Hampden, Hampshire, and Worcester Counties). The WHMG program focuses on addressing health equity, social and economic factors that contribute to health (Social Determinants of Health), and improving health outcomes.

Health New England will award three grants to nonprofit community organizations; one organization will be awarded per focus area. Applicants have the option in applying for a 12-month grant, 2-year grant, or 3-year grant. We fund evidence-based community programs that address one or more of the areas of our funding priorities, health equity, and at least one identified social determinants of health as defined by the Attorney General Community Benefits Nonprofit HMO Guidelines. The expectation is that in addition to improving conditions around the Health New England focus area, the proposed program will improve health outcomes.

We are interested in nonprofit 501(c)(3) community organizations that collaborate with other community partners in the innovative delivery of programs that improve the health of people who live and work in our communities. Our focus areas for funding include:

  • Built environment (food insecurity, housing needs, safe places to play, transportation)
  • Maternal & Infant Health
  • Mental Health & Substance Use
For additional insights into our priority funding areas, please refer to the most recent Community Health Needs Assessment for Health New England. Additional detailed information on Social Determinants of Health, which have been adopted by the Attorney General Community Benefits Guidelines, can be found in the Massachusetts Department of Public Health Determination of Need Health Priorities Guidelines.

HNE