$40 Million in Grants Awarded to Strengthen Public Health - September 7, 2011

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) have awarded public health grants totaling $40 million. On Aug. 31, the CDC awarded grants totaling $33.5 million to public health agencies. The grants aim to fund changes and enhancements in state, tribal, local and territorial health departments and encourage practices that improve the delivery and impact of public health services. Earlier in August, the CDC awarded $49 million to develop and improve the public health infrastructure. HRSA awarded public health schools $6.5 million to provide graduate or specialized training in public health through the Affordable Care Act’s (ACA) Public Health Training Centers Program. These funds are to be used to expand and enhance training opportunities for public health workers that focus on technical, scientific, managerial and leadership competencies and capabilities. These grants, supported through the Public Health Fund of the ACA, are part of a broader effort to improve the health and well-being of communities across the country.