The New Hampshire Children’s Health Foundation (NHCHF) has created a 2026 Emergent Need Fund to help nonprofit organizations in New Hampshire respond to needs caused by unforeseen events. These funds are designed to provide rapid support when unexpected circumstances threaten the ability to deliver essential services to children and families.
We understand that sudden disruptions, whether economic, environmental, or operational, can compound existing challenges such as limited workforce capacity, budget constraints, and the strain of managing multiple priorities. During these periods of instability, individuals and families across the state rely even more on nonprofits to meet critical community needs. This grant approach aims to help organizations remain resilient and responsive when it matters most.
These funds are intended for one-time awards only and are not designed to provide ongoing support.
Eligibility
Emergent need funding is available for New Hampshire 501(c)(3) organizations, or organizations applying under a tax-exempt fiscal sponsor, that serve families with children, ages 0–5 who are at risk for poor health outcomes. Our primary focus is on organizations advancing economic security through related sectors to improve outcomes for young children and their families.
What will we fund?
An organizational or operational response to address emergent needs that could cause harm if unaddressed. Examples include an unexpected increase in demand for services, funding loss, organizational restructuring, and costs related to providing legal services for immigrant and refugee families with young children.
What is excluded?
- Multi-year projects
- Costs for vehicles, equipment, furniture, food, office supplies, construction
- Biomedical research
- Capital campaigns
- Expenses already incurred
- Fundraising events
- Out-of-state projects that do not benefit New Hampshire
- Sectarian or religious programs
- Support for political activities, i.e. campaigns
- International travel expenses
- Organizations or projects that exclude or discriminate based on race, religion, age, gender, sexual orientation, physical or mental ability, national or ethnic origin
What is the time expectation for using the funds?
Grant activities must take place within one year from when the grant is awarded to be eligible for funding.
When do you apply?
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis throughout the year or until funding for the year has been fully expended. We encourage organizations to apply as soon as the need and a plan to address the need are identified.
To apply, follow this link and follow the instructions.
How much can you request?
Requests should not exceed $50,000.
When should you expect a response?
Requests $30,000 and under will receive a response within four weeks. Requests over $30,000 will receive a response within six weeks.
If you have any questions, please contact Alisa Druzba, Director of Research and Community Impact.