(St. Paul, MN) – Applications for COVID-19 Short-Term Emergency grants are now available to healthcare facilities across Minnesota. The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) expects to review requests as early as March 26th to support healthcare facilities amid the spread of COVID-19. The grants are part of a $200 million funding package for planning, preparation, and response to the coronavirus passed by the legislature last week. 

“I am grateful to see the cooperation of medical manufacturers, the Minnesota Department of Health, and healthcare organizations during this pandemic. They, along with the legislature, have worked hard to produce a grant system on short notice,” said Senator Michelle Benson, Chair of the Health and Human Services Committee. “No one deserves our thanks more than the professionals putting themselves on the line to help our state, and I am hopeful this funding will aid them in their efforts. Facilities should apply for these grants as soon as possible.”

Existing within the $200 million is $50 million in Short Term Emergency Grants. These are available for immediate cash response for the highest priority needs within ambulance services, hospitals, and nursing facilities, and other healthcare systems. The dollars received may be utilized for staffing, supplies, and modified operations, as needed.  MDH also announced $150 million in Response Funds will be available at a later date.

The application deadline is Wednesday, March 25, at midnight. Materials are available on MDH’s COVID-19 response webpage and questions should be directed to COVIDgrantapplication.MDH@state.mn.us.