Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield Delaware and the Delaware Community Foundation announce enhancements to BluePrints for the Community Fund

Wilmington, Del.  (January 16, 2025) — Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield Delaware (Highmark Delaware) and the Delaware Community Foundation (DCF) today announced significant enhancements to the BluePrints for the Community grant program, designed to further its mission of ensuring equitable access to healthcare and improving the well-being of Delawareans.

Since its inception in 2007, BluePrints for the Community, a grant program of the Highmark Delaware Fund, has awarded more than 300 grants totaling nearly $41 million to address the needs of Delaware's uninsured and underserved populations.

Key Changes to the BluePrints for the Community Grant Program

Making it Easier to Apply and Report
This year's enhancements make applying for and reporting on BluePrints grants significantly simpler and more efficient. These improvements include:

• Streamlined Application Process: The new and improved simplified application takes less time to complete, allowing organizations to focus more time back on the mission.
• Virtual Impact Reporting Opportunities: Reports that highlight and emphasize the amazing work done in the community.  
• Flexible Grant Categories: Choose from our updated grant categories designed to support a wide range of projects, including:
  • Small Grants (Semi-Annual): Funding for ongoing needs and small-scale projects. Applications are accepted twice a year (February 1-April 1 and August 1-October 1).
  • Large Grants (Annual): Support for significant one-time initiatives. Applications are accepted annually (April 1-June 1). Note: Applicants should demonstrate a clear plan for sustainability beyond this initial funding.

Grant proposals will continue to address five key areas crucial to Delaware's health and well-being: Healthcare Access, Economic Stability, Social and Community Context, Neighborhood and Built Environment, and Health Workforce. 

Open House Opportunities for Nonprofits
Highmark Delaware and the DCF invite nonprofits and community members to learn about these changes and ask questions at information sessions. Space is limited. Register today by emailing moda@delcf.org.

Virtual Session #1: January 23, 2025, 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

In-person Session #2: January 28, 2025, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

Virtual Session #3: February 11, 2025, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM