Better Nursing Home Care Fund

The Better Nursing Home Care Fund is a permanent endowment of The Oregon Community Foundation (OCF), established through restitution in a court case involving the fraudulent operation of nursing homes. This fund is dedicated exclusively to improving the quality of care, life, health, and overall well-being of nursing home residents in Oregon. Created under the auspices of the U.S. District Court, it is one of the first funds of its kind and operates under the guidance of an advisory committee that reviews proposals and makes recommendations to the OCF board. The fund supports projects that span one to three years and awards grants up to $20,000 in the first year, with decreasing amounts in subsequent years. Applicants are encouraged to submit proposals that demonstrate clear plans for sustaining the project activities beyond the grant period and that have potential for replication. The fund is not intended for capital expenses, equipment, or as a substitute for other funding unless a significant impact from OCF support is clearly demonstrated. Grant proposals must be submitted by nonprofits with tax-exempt status or public agencies operating within Oregon. While projects may benefit both nonprofit and for-profit nursing homes, only nonprofit organizations and public entities are eligible to apply. Projects focused on assisted living or retirement facilities are not eligible. The program emphasizes several strategic funding priorities, including innovations in attracting and retaining qualified staff—particularly Certified Nursing Assistants—enhancing interdisciplinary staff relationships, implementing evidence-based practices for dementia care, and integrating new therapeutic or technological practices. Collaborative efforts among nursing homes, advocacy organizations, family groups, and academic institutions are also encouraged. Desired resident-focused outcomes include increased autonomy, improved nutrition, better continence and skin health, greater functional independence, and reduced depression or behavioral symptoms. Staff-focused goals aim to reduce turnover, promote regulatory compliance, and foster mentoring and recognition. All applications must use OCF’s application forms and be submitted as a single PDF by email before 5:00 p.m. on December 1, 2025. Award decisions will be announced by the end of February. For support during the application process, applicants may contact Brian Donkersley, Program Associate, at bdonkersley@oregoncf.org.

Focus on resident-centered impact and sustainability; align with OCF's priority themes; clearly outline replicable practices