African Americans in Montgomery County experience significant disparities in health status and health care, particularly in specific conditions and diseases.  In order to address these health disparities among this population, a wide range of individuals and groups must participate in community-based efforts to raise awareness of the health issues and engage community members in taking steps to address these issues.
 
The African American Health Program, funded by the Department of Health and Human Services and administered by BETAH Associates, Inc., is pleased to offer mini-grants (ranging from $1,000 to $4,900) to community groups to implement specific health-related projects geared to the African-American population of Montgomery County, Maryland.  The grants must be used to educate target groups about specific health issues and encourage changes in individual behaviors, health services, or policies that will promote improved health outcomes among African Americans. The approved grants will be in health areas consistent with the current priorities of the African American Health Program, which are Infant Mortality, HIV/AIDS/STI, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Disease, Tobacco Use Prevention, and Cancer. We encourage projects that are linked to ongoing health-related activities of the group seeking the mini-grant. In addition, applicants are encouraged to include a mental health component in their proposals.

Deadline to submit a proposal is Friday September 11, 2009.

Please see attached RFP that the provides eligibility requirements to apply for the mini-grant.