Florida Blue awards grant funding to Special Hearts Farm

Florida Blue Foundation, the philanthropic affiliate of the state’s Blue Cross Blue Shield plan, is pleased to announce $2.4million in funding to seven nonprofit organizations across the state to help increase access to mental well-being services and support.

The grants will assist nonprofits with programs aimed at addressing youth mental health challenges and increasing the pipeline of mental health professionals.

“At Florida Blue, we believe there is no health without mental health, and we’re supporting solutions that help individuals and families thrive,” said Pat Geraghty, president and CEO of Florida Blue. “These grants will help address critical gaps in mental health services, particularly for youth and communities that are under resourced. We’re proud to partner with these outstanding organizations to make a meaningful difference.”

Geraghty made the announcement in Winter Garden at Special Hearts Farm, one of the seven nonprofits receiving a grant from the Florida Blue Foundation.

Special Hearts Farm will use the grant monies to improve the mental health and quality of life of individuals with autism and intellectual disabilities. The Adult Day Training program utilizes agriculture-based learning to help participants develop personal goals related to mental health, social skills and self-actualization.

The six other organizations are Easter Seals Northeast Central Florida, North Central Florida Health Planning Council, Florida State Alliance of YMCAs Foundation Inc., Gentlemen’s Quest of Tampa Inc., Lakeview Center Inc. and Children’s Bereavement Center.

“We’re thrilled to support these seven organizations that are dedicated to improving mental well-being in Florida,” said Susan Towler, executive director of the Florida Blue Foundation.

The nonprofit organizations selected for 2024 grants serve primarily underserved, underinsured and low-income individuals from rural communities.

Over the past five years, Florida Blue Foundation has awarded 58 grants totaling $18.9 million to nonprofit organizations addressing mental health needs in Florida.