Snow Hill, MD – The Worcester County Health Department has two mini grant funding opportunities to offer community members as part of Farm to Library: Preventing Diabetes in Worcester County Program in 2022. Original funding was provided by CareFirst Blue Cross Blue Shield that supports the project. Farm to Library addresses some of the primary drivers of type 2 diabetes through community gardening, grocery store tours, health literacy, financial literacy, physical activity, cooking classes, and expanded access to the National Diabetes Prevention Program.  

The health department is pleased to accept mini-grant proposals from community partners to serve as Physical Activity Champions and Walk Leaders. To be eligible for $500 in funding, your program must be an organization that serves Worcester County residents and/or employees. Funded organizations will work to develop safe walking routes, create maps, and organize and lead group walks for one of three targeted communities; Berlin, Pocomoke, or Snow Hill. Grant funds may be used for stipends, printing, signage, and educational and promotional materials.

 The health department is also seeking proposals from community partners to develop and sustain a community garden in Snow Hill, Maryland. Funded organizations must commit to planting, cultivating, harvesting and maintaining a community garden in Snow Hill, Maryland and providing produce gleaned from the garden to the health department for distribution through the Farm to Library project. Community based organizations will be able to request up to $880.

 “We are delighted to have the opportunity to provide resources to community members who strive to promote healthy lifestyles in their own neighborhoods. It is our goal to also provide encouragement and support to those community members who will be advocating increased physical activity and healthy eating,” said Rebecca Jones, Health Officer for the Worcester County Health Department.

 Proposals are due to the Worcester County Health Department, Prevention Services Department by 4:30 pm on April 11, 2022. Interested parties may call the Worcester County Health Department Prevention Office at 410-632-1100 ext.1108 to receive an application package. All awards will be made after April 21, 2022 and funds must be spent by December 31, 2022.

Applications may be mailed to:

                                    The Worcester County Health Department

                                    Prevention Services

                                    6040 Public Landing Road

                                    Snow Hill, MD 21863