St. Charles awards more than $100,000 in commuunity grants

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- St. Charles Health System announced recently the recipients of a variety of Community Benefit grants, awarding more than $100,000 to 31 local organizations in Central Oregon.

The grants were awarded to provide basic needs, sponsor local events and as part of St. Charles’ Priority Grant to increase a sense of belonging and reduce loneliness and isolation.

From funding food boxes in schools to community activities at a local senior center, the grants will help communities across Central Oregon with a wide range of needs.

Hearts Unknown Education, a local nonprofit that supports art and music for at-risk youth, received $7,500 to expand its programming. The local nonprofit offers a safe, welcoming space for students to create art and music, while also providing support for positive mental health.  

“Many kids need a place to feel like they can be themselves and feel free to express themselves through art and music in an environment where they are appreciated for being themselves,” said Nicola Carpinelli, director of HUE, which serves more than 100 youth every week through a variety of programs. “This funding is going to help us maintain and expand offerings and we are grateful for the support from St. Charles.”

Learn more about St. Charles Community Benefit program on their website.