Schools, nonprofits and community groups across Delaware County, including those in Powell and Liberty Township, can apply starting Aug. 31 for funding to launch healthy-food or physical-activity projects through the Delaware Public Health District's 2027 Healthy Communities Micro Grant Program.
The grants support initiatives that improve access to healthy foods, encourage better eating habits and create more opportunities for exercise, according to 1808 Delaware. Local governments are also eligible. Projects may focus on prevention, education, access to services or other priorities tied to the Delaware County Community Health Improvement Plan.
The full Request for Proposals, including funding amounts and detailed eligibility requirements, will be posted Aug. 31.
New timeline gives groups more planning time
The health district shifted its grant calendar this year. Previous cycles opened applications in winter, but past applicants told the district that timeline made it difficult to plan projects, finalize contracts and begin work efficiently. Under the new schedule, applications will be accepted during fall 2026, and funding will become available shortly after the start of 2027, giving recipients more flexibility and a stronger start.
The annual program's most recent winners were announced in June 2025.
New health data shows rising chronic disease
The micro grant program funds projects that address priorities in the county's Community Health Improvement Plan. That plan is being updated now, drawing on the 2026 Community Health Assessment released Aug. 12, which found diabetes diagnoses in Delaware County climbed from 8% to 13% and high blood pressure diagnoses rose from 29% to 43% since 2022.
Health Commissioner Garrett Guillozet said at the Aug. 12 release, according to the Delaware Gazette, that the county "remains a healthy community, but there are areas where we can do better."
The share of residents reporting excellent or very good health also dropped, from 69% in 2022 to 61% in 2026, according to Delaware Source.
How to apply
The RFP and application instructions will be available at delawarehealth.org beginning Aug. 31. Questions can be directed to community health specialist Loressa Gonyer at 740-203-2018 or [email protected].
What's ahead
- Aug. 31 — Micro grant RFP and application open at delawarehealth.org
- Fall 2026 — Application window (specific deadline to be announced in the RFP)
- Early 2027 — Funding awarded and projects begin
