Richland Memorial Hospital Board of Trustees announces grant recipients for 2026 and opens applications for 2027 on July 1

The Richland Memorial Hospital Board of Trustees is announcing the recipients of its 2026 Community Grants, awarding funding to seven programs dedicated to improving health outcomes and addressing health disparities across Richland County. Applications for 2027 will open on July 1. The funded initiatives must be centered around access to preventive care, mental health services, food security programs, chronic disease prevention efforts and wellness opportunities for residents throughout the community.

The 2026 Fiscal Year Grant recipients include:

• The Lourie Center: Funding will support expanded programming for older adults, including gym memberships, fitness classes, transportation services, and opportunities for social engagement.
• WellPartners Dental & Eye Clinic: Grant funding will help increase awareness of and access to dental and vision services for underserved and underinsured residents.
• Mental Health Care in Denny Terrace: Support will assist a graduate student-managed clinic in building a sustainable pipeline of mental health professionals dedicated to improving access in underserved communities.
• Wellness in Action Festival: Funding will help establish a regional model for higher education leadership in community wellness, with a focus on equity, empowerment and community engagement.
• Community Health Flu Initiative: Grant support will provide no-cost flu vaccinations to Richland County residents, helping increase access to preventive healthcare services.
• Community Health Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP): Funding will provide gym memberships for program participants to encourage physical activity and reduce the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.
• Food Farmacy Continuation Program: Support will help expand partnerships with local churches to assist with SNAP enrollment and increase access to fresh food boxes in communities with high levels of need.

This announcement comes as the application period for 2027 community grants is scheduled to open. Organizations seeking support for programs that improve health outcomes, address health disparities, and enhance quality of life for Richland County residents are encouraged to apply.

Through its annual grant program, the Richland Memorial Hospital Board of Trustees invests in community-based initiatives that expand access to care, promote preventive health services, and address the social factors that influence health. The Board welcomes proposals from eligible organizations whose programs align with these priorities and demonstrate a meaningful impact on the community.

Applications open on July 1 and will be accepted through July 31. Applications can be submitted at this link starting on July 1.

For more information about the Richland Memorial Hospital Board of Trustees and its community initiatives, visit the Richland Memorial Hospital Board of Trustees Community Grants website.