#United States #Bloomington #Nonprofits #Bloomington Health #Bridge Funding

Bloomington Health Foundation Unveils 2026 Bridge Funding for Local Nonprofits

In an effort to assist local nonprofits grappling with financial upheaval due to funding losses, the Bloomington Health Foundation has announced the launch of the 2026 Bridge Funding initiative. This initiative aims to provide critical support to 501(c)(3) organizations in the greater Bloomington area that have faced sudden funding disruptions affecting their core services.

A Response to Community Needs

The foundation's commitment to community health advocacy underpins this funding opportunity, acknowledging the significant challenges introduced by recent adjustments in state and federal funding allocations. As a result, numerous essential programs across Monroe County are now at risk, prompting the foundation to step in and offer aid.

Michelle Gilchrist, the President and CEO of Bloomington Health Foundation, emphasized the importance of sustaining these local nonprofits: "Our community thrives when strong local nonprofits can sustain vital services, especially in times of uncertainty. Bridge Funding offers critical support to help organizations continue their meaningful work without interruption."

Funding Details

The Bridge Funding initiative will serve to stabilize existing programs rather than finance new initiatives. It is open to eligible 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations within the Bloomington region that can demonstrate a loss in funding due to recent legislative or administrative changes. Organizations may request funding ranging from $10,000 to $50,000, tailored to support service continuity. Preference will be given to proposals that include supplementary funding sources to further guarantee sustainability.

Application Criteria

To qualify for the funding, applicants must:
1. Demonstrate a clear loss of state or federal funding.
2. Request between $10,000 and $50,000 to sustain their current programs.
3. Provide a concise description of the service's impact and outline a plan for long-term viability.
4. Include necessary documentation, including the IRS determination letter, recent Form 990s, and detailed project budgets.

Application Timeline

The application process for the Bridge Funding is currently open, with nonprofits encouraged to submit their proposals at the earliest opportunity. Detailed guidelines and the online application forms are accessible on the Bloomington Health Foundation's website at bloomhf.org/2026-bridge-funding.

As the deadline approaches, local nonprofits are urged to act promptly to secure their future funding needs and continue providing essential services to the community. The foundation’s initiative is a testament to their strong belief in supporting local organizations, recognizing that their sustainability is crucial for the well-being of individuals and families in the Bloomington area.

In summary, the 2026 Bridge Funding initiative is poised to create a wave of support for local organizations facing unexpected financial challenges, ensuring uninterrupted service to the most vulnerable members of the community. It is a collaborative effort focused on reinforcing the existing network of nonprofit organizations, ultimately leading to a healthier community overall.