Outer Banks Health has announced the recipients of its 2025-2026 Community Benefit Grants Program. The program aims to improve access to healthcare and financial resources for more than 30,000 individuals in need within the community. Since starting in 2006, Outer Banks Health has distributed over $2.3 million in grants to local organizations.
This year’s grant recipients include a range of agencies focused on health, wellness, nutrition, and support services. Among them are Beach Food Pantry, which will expand its nutritional education with healthy principles; Cape Hatteras United Methodist Men’s Lift Program for housebound citizens; and Children & Youth Partnership for Dare County, which is implementing mindfulness-based wellness programs in schools and the broader community.
Other organizations receiving funding are Community Care Clinic of Dare for medical care to uninsured or under-insured patients; Cross Roads OBX Association providing emergency and recovery support for those dealing with substance use disorders; and Dare Arts expanding art programs for cancer-affected individuals and underserved populations.
The Dare County Department of Health & Human Services received grants for two initiatives: a public awareness campaign aimed at reducing behavioral health stigma through the Breaking Through Task Force, and women’s health programs offering prenatal ultrasounds and breast cancer diagnostics to underserved residents. Dare County Transportation was awarded funds to help transport patients to medical appointments.
Additional grantees include Food for Thought, which provides meal bags, hygiene items, and clothing to families facing food insecurity; Interfaith Community Outreach offering financial assistance and crisis intervention; NC MedAssist delivering free pharmacy services directly to homes; North Carolina State University Cooperative Extension Dare County running youth nutrition camps; Room in the Inn providing temporary shelter and necessities; and Safe House Project supporting trafficking survivors in Dare County.
Representatives from each recipient organization gathered with members of Outer Banks Health, its Development Council, and the Community Benefit Grants Committee to receive their checks and discuss their projects.
According to Outer Banks Health, the system is designed to meet the unique needs of a coastal population that grows from about 35,000 year-round residents to over 250,000 during summer months. The hospital states it is first in patient satisfaction statewide, was first nationally to pilot rural health cancer programs, and was designated as a Dementia Friendly Hospital. It partners with ECU Health, Chesapeake Regional Healthcare, and other regional organizations across North Carolina and Virginia.
“We work with our partners, ECU Health and Chesapeake Regional Healthcare, along with other health organizations throughout North Carolina and Virginia, to help our residents and visitors access the best possible care for their diagnosis. Many times we deliver that care right here, close to home,” according to Outer Banks Health.
