COVID Disparity Grants Announced For Community Groups

Community organizations addressing COVID-19 response and recovery in Indianapolis will receive grants from a program investing $1 million to address health disparities.

The grants target groups working to address racial disparities in health and social factors that Indianapolis residents face during the pandemic. The awards will be given to 86 groups, the largest gift to the Chin Center is $40,000

The city of Indianapolis partnered with the Marion County Public Health Department and global health funder Resolve for Save Lives to distribute the money.

Marion County Public Health Director Dr. Virginia Caine said the organizations awarded funding have direct connections in the communities.

“These groups and their trusted messengers will now be our partners in improving access, providing education, and ensuring equitable distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine and the lifesaving protection it offers,” Caine said.

The funds will go to neighborhood groups including churches, community centers and cultural institutions.  Efforts aim to increase vaccinations and address other disparities worsened by COVID-19, including basic needs.

There were nearly 200 applications submitted. A diverse committee of health, community, housing and education experts decided on the grant winners.