HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – The Chamber of Commerce Hawaii is now accepting applications for 2025 Public Health Fund (PHF) grants.

At least $100,000 in grants are available for Oahu-based nonprofits to advance programs that promote community health, wellness, and education and projects related to health education, research, and legislative advocacy.

Marc Alexander, chair of the public health fund committee with the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii, and Joni Chun from the Susannah Wesley Community Center joined HNN’s Sunrise to talk about the need for funding.

“If you’re doing something that helps benefits public health, especially something that’s maybe more innovative, doesn’t have a lot of funding streams, this is the program for you,” Alexander said.

Last year, the PHF awarded $100,000 to five nonprofits supporting initiatives such as food security, mental health training, domestic violence support, youth mentoring, and medical and dental training programs.

“So this year, we had the most grants in many years,” he added. “We had 26 applications, and then we’ve awarded or will award five grants, but it was very competitive. We have had close to $700,000 in requests come in.”

With federal cuts forcing government agencies and nonprofits to reduce critical safety net programs, the Chamber says its Public Health Fund is helping fill the gaps.

“Investing in public health is investing in our community’s future,” says Sherry Menor, President and CEO of the Chamber of Commerce Hawaii. “The Public Health Fund supports nonprofits creating meaningful change across Oahu. We encourage organizations to apply for 2025 funding and help us advance programs that educate, prevent, and improve the well-being of our neighbors and families.”

Among the past beneficiaries, the Susannah Wesley Community Center (SWCC) in Kalihi, which has served local families for more than 125 years.

They offer emergency food and diaper assistance, after-school programming, youth development, and family strengthening.

They received a $10,000 grant this year.

“We started a SWCC free store that’s coupled with resources, resource connecting, opportunities, workshops, and health activities to benefit our community,” said Joni Chun, executive director for the community center.

“(SWCC has) a great intergenerational program. They serve the youth, (and) the Kupuna. It’s not just about services. They provide a sense of community, and I think that’s so critical nowadays,” Alexander said.

Each year, the volunteer PHF Advisory Committee reviews applications and recommends recipients to the Chamber’s Board of Directors for final approval. Since 1985, $3.5 million in grants has been awarded.

Applications for the 2025 round of funding are due by Friday, Dec. 19. For questions and to apply, email phf@cochawaii.org.

See the story here.