Delaware First Health and Centene Foundation Launch $500,000 Grant Program to Tackle Social Drivers of Health
NEWARK, Del., May 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Delaware First Health (DFH), a leading Medicaid managed care organization in Delaware, and the Centene Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Centene Corporation (NYSE: CNC), have opened the application period for a new grant initiative aimed at addressing social determinants of health.
The program will provide funding to Delaware-based non-profit and community organizations that support the Medicaid population by targeting key social challenges such as food insecurity, housing instability, and lack of access to transportation—factors that often impact an individual’s ability to seek and maintain proper healthcare.
“We are proud to support organizations working on the front lines to improve community health,” said Bill Wilson, President and CEO of Delaware First Health. “When basic needs like housing, food, and transportation are met, people are more empowered to prioritize their health. These grants are an investment in healthier communities across Delaware.”
A total of $500,000 in grant funding will be distributed over the next three years, with individual grants starting at a minimum of $10,000. Applications are open through June 13, 2025, with selected recipients to be announced in July.
While all proposals addressing social drivers of health will be considered, those that focus on housing instability or transportation accessibility will receive priority consideration.
Grant Eligibility Criteria:
- Organizations must be Delaware-based 501(c)(3) non-profits
- Must serve the Medicaid population
- Must demonstrate how funds will be used and report measurable outcomes over time
- Applications must include all required documentation, including program materials, a W-9, Form 990, and IRS Affirmation or Determination Letter
Interested organizations are encouraged to apply and become partners in a shared mission to break down barriers to health and well-being across Delaware.
Established in 2023, Delaware First Health provides government-sponsored managed care services to families across Delaware through Medicaid (Delaware First Health), Marketplace (Ambetter Health of Delaware), Medicare Advantage (Wellcare), and Medicare Prescription Drug Plans (Wellcare). By building strong community partnerships that support access to wholistic and culturally competent care, Delaware First Health is transforming the health of the communities we serve, one person at a time. Delaware First Health is a Centene Corporation company. For more information, please visit DelawareFirstHealth.com.
About Centene Foundation
The Centene Foundation (the “Foundation”), a private nonprofit focused on investing in economically challenged communities, is the philanthropic arm of Centene Corporation (NYSE: CNC) (“Centene”). The Foundation supports projects and initiatives strategically aligned with Centene’s mission-driven culture and enhances the work Centene is doing to remove the barriers to wellness underserved and low-income populations face. The Foundation is committed to addressing drivers of health and improving health equity in three distinct areas of focus: healthcare access, social services and education.
