Funding Available for Blue Cross Foundation’s Public Libraries for Health

EAGAN, Minn. (Feb. 22, 2013) — The Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota Foundation announces a second round of funding for a program designed to engage public libraries as leaders in improving  community health. The Foundation will fund up to three grants of up to $50,000 each. The request for proposal (RFP) guidelines are available on the Foundation website. The online submission period begins March 6 with proposals due by 4 p.m. on April 9, 2013.

“Public libraries are trusted institutions with strong community ties,” said Stacey Millett, senior program officer. “They are in a unique position to help communities achieve health equity in effective and creative ways.”

The Foundation is interested in projects that support and expand the public library’s role as a leader in addressing issues that too often prevent people from living healthier lives. They can engage low-income communities to improve health by building employment skills, educational opportunities, social connections and family support. This RFP is not designed to support projects that are focused exclusively on health education, healthy lifestyle or direct health-related activities such as sponsoring health screenings. Because the Foundation values collaborative efforts, community partnerships are a key emphasis of this RFP.

The Public Libraries for Health initiative is inspired, in part, by the Urban Libraries Council Innovations Initiative.

Interested organizations must meet the legal definition of a Minnesota-based public library or Minnesota-based public library service as defined in Minnesota state statutes. The Foundation will strive for geographic reach around the state with the three grants in communities with a significant population of low-income households. Strong consideration will be given to public library applicants working with a local community partner. Current grantees are welcome to apply, but more weight will be given to new applicants.

Media Contact:
Shelley Lange
(651) 662-7841
Shelley.Lange@bluecrossmn.com

The Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota Foundation exclusively dedicates its assets to improving health in Minnesota, awarding more than $31 million since it was established in 1986. The Foundation’s purpose is the make a healthy difference in people’s lives by improving the community conditions that affect the health of children and families.