Funding Available for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Care

The Vermont Community Foundation is seeking proposals from community-based organizations in support of Vermonters’ access to mental health and suicide prevention care. This new opportunity is made possible by a generous gift from an anonymous fundholder. Eligible applicants are community-based organizations that are currently deploying evidence-based, culturally competent mental health and prevention supports and services either directly or in collaboration with an experienced mental health community partner.

While primary providers of health and mental health services should not be the lead applicant for these funds, we strongly encourage collaborative projects that engage such agencies in the work that is being led by those community-based organizations that serve populations most put at risk during the COVID-19 pandemic. Programming must include suicide prevention, intervention, and/or postvention strategies. Programs open to all Vermonters are eligible, however, priority for funding will be given to those organizations serving the most vulnerable Vermonters disproportionately impacted by COVID-19, including those who identify as LGBTQ+, New Americans (asylees, refugees, English Language Learners), BIPOC Vermonters, seniors, veterans, and those impacted by substance use disorder, and others experiencing the economic impacts of the pandemic, especially Vermonters and families with limited resources.

This program will award grants of up to $10,000 for a 12-month project period. Applications will be accepted through 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, August 12, 2021.

This funding is not intended for new startup programs or for applicants without a history of serving the populations identified above. Potential applicants are encouraged to contact Program Officer Kevin Wiberg prior to applying at kwiberg@vermontcf.org, 802-388-3355 ext. 284.

Visit vermontcf.org/mental-health-suicide-prevention to learn more and apply.