There are local Blue Cross & Blue Shield foundations across the U.S., including one based in Flowood, Mississippi. The Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Mississippi Foundation (BCBSMF) is a state-specific health funder that has been operating since 2004 and is committed to improving the health and wellbeing of all Mississippians.
Here are some things to know about this foundation and how to approach it for a grant.
Specific interests
Unlike some health funders that take a broad approach, BCBSMF is quite specific with what it supports. There are strong preferences for healthy eating and exercise, for example.
Here’s what this funder is most interested in right now:
Increasing health literacy
Enhancing or starting farmers’ markets
Cultivating community and school gardens
Encouraging tobacco-free environments
Creating outdoor play spaces
Constructing places for physical fitness
Healthy cooking classes
Health education
Support for every county
BCBSMF is interested in the entire state of Mississippi and makes a point to spread its grants throughout the state. In fact, the funder has an interactive map that lets viewers click on each Mississippi county and see a list of organizations BCBSMF has funded along with the grant year. Some areas have certainly gotten more attention than others, and you can get a sense of the funder’s geographic interests by browsing the map.
An accessible application process
Like many Blue Cross & Blue Shield foundations in other states, this one has a straightforward, accessible and transparent way of awarding grants. The application process starts with an initial letter of inquiry. Each letter of inquiry submitted results in either a request for more information, a request for a full grant application or a letter informing the applicant that BCBSMF will not fund the project.
There are no deadlines to apply for a BCBSMF grant — LOIs are accepted throughout the year. However, all applicants must be physically located in Mississippi and benefit Mississippi communities.
Other award programs
In addition to its regular grants, BCBSMF also has two award programs to recognize health and wellness efforts in local communities. The Healthy Hometown Awards go to municipalities that are making strides toward creating a healthy culture and opportunities for residents. The Healthy School Awards go to public schools that promote healthy eating, physical activity, staff wellness, tobacco-free lifestyles, and parental and community involvement. BCBSMF provides online resources to apply for these awards on its website.
Read more about this funder and others that give locally in Mississippi.