By 1808Delaware
Creating a healthier Delaware County is no small task—and there’s no single path to get there. That’s why the Delaware Public Health District is once again investing in a diverse group of local partners through its 2025 Healthy Communities Micro Grant (HCMG) program.
The latest round of HCMG funding supports grassroots projects that promote healthy eating and active living across Delaware County. From vertical gardens to resistance gyms, this year’s grants reflect the district’s commitment to meeting communities where they are—while helping them move toward better health.
A Tailored Approach to Health
“There’s no one-size-fits-all model for community health,” said Abbey Trimble, Health District staff member and coordinator for the grant program. “These projects reflect the creativity and energy of our local partners. They understand the needs of their neighborhoods and are working to make sustainable change from the ground up.”
The HCMG program focuses on reducing chronic disease by expanding access to nutritious foods and physical activity opportunities. In doing so, it also supports the goals of the 2023–2028 Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP), developed through The Partnership for a Healthy Delaware County.
Meet the 2025 Grant Recipients
This year’s funded partners are a mix of municipalities, schools, nonprofits, and grassroots community organizations. Here’s a closer look at where the dollars are going and how they’ll be put to use:
| Partner | Project Description | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Berkshire Township | Community Park Improvements – Concrete cornhole set to complement park development | $1,829 |
| DACC – Dempsey Career Based Intervention (CBI) | Student Health and Wellness Challenge – Equipment and supplies to help students build healthy habits | $1,230 |
| Kingston Township | Community Park Improvements – Walking path and supportive amenities | $3,000 |
| Berlin Farms Community | Community Garden – Vertical growing through trellis installations | $1,200 |
| People In Need, Inc. | Pantry Distribution Improvements – Supplies to expand parking for safety and efficiency | $2,750 |
| Radnor Township | Community Park Improvements – Benches and pet waste stations along walking paths | $1,200 |
| The St. Michael’s Community | Fitness Equipment – Resistance Band Wall Gym for community room use | $2,241 |
| Sunbury Farmers Market | Market Expansion – Equipment and supplies to accommodate growth | $2,750 |
| Unity Community Center | Community Garden – Additional beds to support garden expansion at Unity Park | $1,790 |
A County-Wide Movement
These projects may seem modest in size, but together they help build a county-wide culture of health—one cornhole set, garden bed, and student challenge at a time.
“All of these efforts add up to a stronger, more connected, and healthier Delaware County,” Trimble noted. “It’s exciting to see how each project fits into the larger vision of community well-being.”
Get Involved
Residents, organizations, and community groups interested in the Healthy Communities Micro Grant program or broader health initiatives are encouraged to learn more or get involved. For additional details, contact Abbey Trimble at ATrimble@delawarehealth.org.
Together, through local action and shared purpose, Delaware County is proving that better health is truly a community effort.
