Local nonprofits are using grants to offer healthcare to families and individuals until Delaware County can get its own health department up and running, writes Kenny Cooper for whyy.org.

The Foundation for Delaware County is providing $2.1 million in impact grants to 48 nonprofits. The largest share, $1.6 million, is going to children’s health and well-being.

Nonprofits are on the front lines providing critical services to address needs that have been exacerbated by the pandemic, states Frances Sheehan, the foundation’s president.

“Children’s health and well-being are incredibly important to the foundation. Children are at the beginning … of a community and a society,” said Joanne Craig, the foundation’s chief impact officer.

“And if we don’t do the best job of helping pregnant women and families with young children to help their children to thrive and grow, then we’re in trouble.”

ChesPenn Medical Services, a network of community health centers, will use $180,000 over three years to provide pre-natal care and healthcare to children in need at its community health centers in Chester, Upper Darby and Coatesville.

ChesPenn and Kids Smiles will use grant money to provide dental care and education to children.

Read more at whyy.org about nonprofits grants  helping Delaware County’s healthcare needs.