Last week, HRSA announced a new opportunity under the Healthy Start Program aimed at eliminating disparities in infant mortality rates and perinatal outcomes. Healthy Start Program funds are targeted to communities with rates of infant mortality at least 1.5 times the national average and high rates of other adverse perinatal outcomes. The opportunity is open to both new and competing continuations. Eligible applicants include any public or private entity, including an Indian tribe, community-based organization, or faith-based organization.

Applicants must choose among three levels of service to which to apply. Grantees at each of the levels are expected to fulfill different roles in meeting the goals of the program. At Level 1, up to 32 grantees are expected to reach at least 500 program participants and participate in community collaboration, information sharing, and advocacy through a Community Action Network which involves consumers and community leaders to engage consumers, providers, and others in community change. Up to $24 million is available under Level 1.

At Level 2, up to 4 grantees are expected to reach at least 800 participants and stimulate community collaboration to focus on working with the relevant partners to develop a common agenda, shared measurement approach, and coordinate resources. Up to $4.8 million is available under Level 2.

Finally, at Level 3, up to 4 grantees are expected to reach at least 1,000 participants and serve as the backbone organization providing leadership and structure for collective impact, including overall strategic direction, dedicated staff, coordination of communication and outreach, data collection and analysis, and mobilization of funding and other resources. Up to $8 million is available under Level 3.

The project period for all grants will span 4 years and 9 months. Applications are due March 31, 2014. Words for Good has a considerable experience writing and managing HRSA applications – including Healthy Start Level 1 grants.