St. Charles Health System announced the recipients of a variety of Community Benefit grants, awarding more than $155,000 to 29 organizations in Central Oregon. The grants were awarded to provide basic needs, to support local diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives, to sponsor local events and as part of St. Charles’ Priority Grant to increase a sense of belonging and reduce loneliness and isolation.
Local nonprofit Prevention Intervention Recovery Services by SriPonya received $15,000 to help support a new drop-in space in Madras for youth. It’s a one of the many ways the organization is working to help students develop life skills and resilience to avoid drug and alcohol addiction.
PIRS President John Charles says that the grant from St. Charles aimed at reducing loneliness and increasing belonging will make a big difference in the organization’s ability to open the new space, which is set to open within the month in downtown Madras.
“We will have food, computers and support to help students succeed and be their authentic selves,” said Charles. The group also hosts a sports program in Warm Springs and Prineville as well as numerous programs, workshops and other efforts for youth and adults across the Tri-County region – all in support of prevention, intervention and recovery. “We are coming in with our sleeves rolled up and we are here to help and really want to serve,” said Charles.
Applications are open now through Feb. 28 for the next round of grants from the Community Benefit team at St. Charles. Organizations can learn more and apply on the website.