The Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation, Nantahala Health Foundation and Dogwood Health Trust are pleased to announce a new collaborative initiative to address home repair needs in Cherokee, Clay, Graham, Jackson, Macon and Swain counties and across the border of Qualla.

“The leaders of these three foundations believe that health and wellness begins when people are housed safely and at an affordable cost,” said Dr Susan Mims, Interim CEO of Dogwood Health Trust. “Providing support to the Healthy Homes Initiative will enable the Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation and the Nantahala Health Foundation to meet the most critical home repair needs among those who need it most. “

The initiative targets owner-occupied dwellings at 60% of the region’s median income (MAI). Many of these homeowners cannot afford the repairs necessary to maintain the safety and health of the occupants of their homes. Others need home modifications to make sure they can age safely in their home or to deal with physical challenges or disabilities. The affordability of home repairs and modifications has been further compromised by the supply chain and labor issues exacerbated by COVID-19. Dogwood Health Trust supports the Healthy Homes Initiative and the work of HCHF and NHF with a grant of $ 400,000.

On September 15, HCHF and NHF will open a new round of grants specifically soliciting proposals from nonprofit, government and faith-based organizations that have been successful in the past in identifying and implementing critical repair and relief projects. rehabilitation of the house. Leaders from both foundations said they look forward to reviewing applications, awarding grants and working together to provide safe, equitable and affordable housing to those in need across our service area.

Robin Tindall, CEO and Executive Director of HCHF, said: “We are grateful to Dogwood Health Trust for providing our foundations with this collaborative grant opportunity, which will undoubtedly increase our ability to improve health and wellness. of those who are struggling to repair their homes. . By partnering with NHF, we aim to correct housing conditions that threaten life and safety, such as faulty septic systems, faulty heating systems or damaged floors, etc.

Nantahala Health Foundation Executive Director Lori Bailey concurred with Tindall’s assessment, adding: “We all know that safe and secure housing is fundamental to improving health and well-being. of all. Yet, for many members of our community, their safety and well-being is at risk because the expense of maintaining the home or making any necessary modifications is beyond their means. We greatly appreciate Dogwood’s confidence in our organizations to ensure that these funds will have an immediate impact on those who need them most.

Grant applications will be accepted until the closing date of October 15. Information regarding the grant application process is available on the HCHF and NHF websites.

About our partners: Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation

The Highlands Cashiers Health Foundation was established on February 1, 2019 as a 501 (c) 3 public charity to improve the health and well-being of the Highlands, cashiers and surrounding communities. In collaboration with generous donors, the Foundation aims to bring about positive and lasting change by supporting projects and programs that improve the health and well-being in the communities we serve. Visit the HCHF website to join us in Raise health and well-being, together.

About Dogwood Health Trust

Dogwood Health Trust is a private foundation based in Asheville, North Carolina with the sole purpose of dramatically improving the health and well-being of all people and communities in 18 counties and the western Qualla border. from North Carolina. Dogwood Health Trust focuses on innovative and fair ways to address the many factors that contribute to overall health and well-being. With a focus on housing, education, economic opportunity, and access to health care and resources, Dogwood Health Trust strives to create a Western North Carolina where every generation can live, learn, earn and prosper, with dignity and opportunity for all, without exception. For more information, please visit the Dogwood Health Trust website.