Program offers funding for communities to advance COVID-19 vaccine equity

SANTA FE – The New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) is excited to announce the Better Together Grant Program application cycle is now open through March 31, 2022. The program provides funding to established community-based organizations and tribal governments to provide accurate pandemic information and access to COVID-19 vaccines for all New Mexicans. The application cycle will close at midnight on March 31, and late applications will not be considered.

In partnership with the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), NMDOH created the community-focused program to advance health equity goals for under-vaccinated and diverse cultural, economic and social populations through improved access to COVID-19 vaccination and information. Applicants submit a plan that identifies an overarching outreach effort that will be achieved through activator and mobilizer initiatives. Emphasis is placed on reaching defined demographics and specific counties with low COVID-19 vaccination rates in New Mexico. NMDOH has approved funding of the program through June 2024, in an effort to provide a long lasting, sustainable impact.

“We know there are innovative ideas brewing about how to reach people throughout our state,” said Grant Program Manager Audrey Herrera-Castillo. “We encourage community based organizations to participate, so we can help bring those ideas to life and build a healthier New Mexico.”

The grant program seeks established organizations currently engaged with vulnerable populations throughout New Mexico to submit an application. For more information visit BetterTogetherNM.org/Grant-Program.