NEW BEDFORD – Barbara Acksen, chair of the Greater New Bedford Allies for Health and Wellness, recently announced that the GNB Allies is offering up to 25 grants to mark the group’s 25^th Anniversary.

The grants, which will range in size from $500 to $2000, are intended to fund worthwhile programs in the Greater New Bedford region that will contribute to improved health outcomes for residents of the region. Click HERE for the grant application.

“We are looking to complement the great work being done by agencies and organizations here in the Greater New Bedford area,” Acksen said.  “Over our 25-year history, our coalition has thrived on collaboration, networking and mutual support. Our membership thought that reviving our grant program was an appropriate way to mark our twenty-five years, while also championing groups who may have not had any other way to fund these projects.”

Acksen made the announcement at the GNB Allies 25^th Anniversary brunch, held on Oct. 19th at the Wamsutta Club in New Bedford. The attendees, a group of over 50 individuals, included State Representatives Antonio Cabral and Paul Schmid, who presented a citation from the Massachusetts House of Representatives congratulating the group on its 25^th anniversary. The guest speaker was Damon Chaplin, the Director of Public Health for the City of New Bedford.

Successful proposals will benefit one or more towns in the GNB Allies region, which includes Acushnet, Dartmouth, Fairhaven, Freetown, Marion, Mattapoisett, New Bedford, Rochester, and Wareham. According to Acksen, interested parties can view the grant application at the group’s website, GBAllies.net, or by emailing gnballies@gmail.com. Applications are due December 1, 2018.

GNB Allies for Health and Wellness is a 501c3 non-profit organization comprised of health care professionals, prevention experts, and social service agencies.  Officially organized as Community Health Network Area (CHNA) 26, GNB Allies receives funding through the Department of Public Health’s Determination of Need program, by which health care institutions dedicate a percentage of funds spent on capital improvements back into the community.

GNB Allies members do not make referrals, or offer direct services.  In case of an emergency, please seek help either from 911, the crisis center, or a hospital emergency room.