The Sagamore Division of the Indiana Chapter of the March of Dimes is making community award grants available to support local programs that share the organization's work to give all babies a healthy start.

The grants are funded in part by March for Babies and other local fundraising events. In addition to funding $30 million for biomedical research each year nationally, the March of Dimes also gives financial support to initiate community-based projects that help reduce premature birth, birth defects and infant mortality by addressing particular local needs.

"In Indiana a review of state and local health statistics and service gaps determined that by funding local programs we can make a difference for all babies," Program Services Committee Chair Jackie Bahler said. "Programs that could receive funding could be teaching women and families about how to prepare to have a healthy baby, how to deliver a healthy baby or how to keep it healthy. We are pleased to support locally focused efforts to help newborns."

Applications must be received no later than May 20. To learn more about the level of funding available and to apply for a grant, contact Erin Hallett at (765) 448-6641.