CINCINNATI, OHIO (December 3, 2024) – The Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) has awarded a $192,050 grant to the HealthPath Foundation of Ohio, a supporting organization of Greater Cincinnati Foundation, to lead a transformative, multi-state initiative aimed at strengthening the oral health workforce. This project, funded through ARC’s Appalachian Regional Initiative for Stronger Economies (ARISE), will improve access to oral healthcare and boost economic development in North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia.

With an additional $146,359 in matching funds from HealthPath Foundation of Ohio, the Appalachian Children Coalition, the North Carolina Oral Health Collaborative, the Pennsylvania Coalition for Oral Health, and the West Virginia Oral Health Coalition, the total project investment reaches $338,409.

Other ARISE Grants Announced Today Include:

• $7,030,989 to the Mountain State Education Services Cooperative for a workforce simulation program in middle schools across Kentucky, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia.
• $3,980,996 to Morehead State University for aerospace workforce development in Kentucky and West Virginia.
• $2,870,702 to Thrive Regional Partnership to expand capacity-building programs in Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee.
• $500,000 to Washington Greene County Job Training Agency, Inc. for apprenticeship expansion in Ohio, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia.

“Investing in oral health workforce development in Appalachia is vital for healthier, more prosperous communities. This commitment to Appalachia’s future highlights the crucial role oral health plays in strengthening economies and enhancing overall well-being. We are grateful for the opportunity to positively impact Ohio’s Appalachian region and deeply appreciate the Appalachian Children Coalition’s partnership, matching grant, and commitment to improving oral health,” said Marla Morse, Executive Director, Oral Health Ohio.

###

Media Contact:

About HealthPath Foundation of Ohio

HealthPath Foundation of Ohio envisions a future where all Ohioans, regardless of status, wealth, or circumstances, can achieve their fullest health potential. To date, HealthPath has awarded more than $21 million in grants across 36 Ohio counties, addressing critical health challenges facing local communities. Learn more at healthpathohio.org.