The Hospital Authority of Rockdale County (HARC) will accept applications for grants February 25 through March 8, kicking off the first of two grant cycles planned for 2013.  Nonprofit or government agencies working to improve the physical and mental health of Rockdale residents are encouraged to consider applying.  

“I am excited about the upcoming grants cycle and the continuation of our partnership with other organizations committed to addressing the healthcare needs of Rockdale residents,” said HARC Chairman Benny Atkins, noting that HARC has invested more than $400,000 in charitable healthcare projects and programs since launching its grants program in May 2010.

Grant applications and grant program guidelines are available on the HARC website at www.rockdaleha.org  or may be obtained by contacting HARC Executive Director Julie Mills at 770-922-1441 or jmills@rockdaleha.org. Participation in a pre-proposal conference is mandatory for all applicants; new applicants also are required to attend a HARC orientation session. Potential applicants should contact Mills by Friday, February 8 to schedule a conference.

Among its many investments in charitable healthcare thus far, HARC has funded programs aimed at promoting healthy pregnancies and infant care; providing transportation for mental health services; ensuring that homebound seniors receive crucial liquid nutritional supplements; screening low income families for chronic diseases;  providing free mammograms to the uninsured; and many other health-related initiatives. Additionally, HARC has financially supported the efforts of Helping Hands and Mercy Heart clinics to serve low income and uninsured residents.

“With the help of our many partners in community health, I believe we are truly making a positive difference in people's lives,” said Atkins. “We look forward to continuing these efforts in the upcoming grants cycle.”