Peace Garden News

Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota (BCBSND) Caring Foundation, together with the Center for Rural Health at the University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences, has opened the application period for its 2026 Rural Health Grants. Proposals are being accepted from November 1 to November 15, 2025.

The grants are intended for rural health care providers working in partnership with nonprofit organizations or community partners. The goal is to implement projects that improve health and well-being in rural communities across North Dakota during 2026. These projects focus on local challenges and seek sustainable solutions.

“When we invest in rural communities, we’re investing in the strength and resilience of our entire state,” said Amber Blomberg, executive director of the BCBSND Caring Foundation. “North Dakota is a rural state, and that means access to care can look very different depending on where you live. These grants help bridge that gap by supporting projects that bring essential health resources closer to home.”

Since the program began in 2005, over $3 million has been directed toward rural communities to promote healthy living and reduce barriers to health care. Grant recipients have reported positive impacts on their communities.

“This grant has benefited the community by making physical activity more accessible, enjoyable and inclusive,” said McKayla McKay, Heart of America’s foundation coordinator and executive assistant. “Residents now have opportunities to participate in fitness programs and events close to home which helps reduce common barriers like cost, transportation and lack of resources.”

“Peer Vision for Mental Health is incredibly grateful for this grant,” said Tamra Huesers, executive director of Peer Vision for Mental Health. “Through our Minot Vets for Vets program, this grant expands veteran peer support into rural areas around Minot. We've witnessed firsthand how human connection and shared experience strengthen mental health and prevent suicides through community-building, education and peer support.”

“At Northland Health Centers, we see and understand how social and economic challenges impact the health and well-being of our communities,” said Nadine Boe, CEO of Northland Health Centers. The funding from the BCBSND Caring Foundation allowed us to provide essential resources that made a real difference for students and their families.”

A recent Social Drivers of Health study by BCBSND Caring Foundation found ongoing shortages of primary care physicians, dentists, and mental health providers in North Dakota despite low uninsured rates and increased telehealth services. Funding from these grants aims to address such gaps by supporting local solutions so people living in remote areas can access needed care.

For 2026, up to eight recipients will each receive between $5,000 and $7,500 for projects focused on improving health outcomes among rural residents. The funding period covers January 1 through December 31, 2026. Applications must be submitted by 5 p.m. Central Time on November 15 via UND CRH’s online system (https://ruralhealth.und.edu/projects/bcbs-grant-program).