Snow Hill, MD -  The Worcester County Health Department (WCHD) is requesting proposals from community-based organizations and local farmers to help implement Cooking up Health: A Nourishing Neighbors Program as a result of receiving funds from Carefirst BlueCross BlueShield.

The program focuses on building healthier food environments, strengthening local food systems, and improving access to nutritious food. It aims to boost nutritional security for those with diet-related health issues and empower individuals with the knowledge and tools to make healthier food choices. 

There are three funding opportunities available within this project:

• Little Free Food Pantry Boxes

Local organizations may request up to $750 to host and maintain a “Little Free Food Pantry” box in Berlin, Pocomoke, or Snow Hill, MD. Funded organizations must commit to securing, stocking, and maintaining a “Little Free Food Pantry” box in Berlin, Pocomoke, or Snow Hill.

• “Pop-up” Farmers Markets

Local Farmers may request up to $6,000 to participate in “Pop-Up” Farmers Markets in Worcester County. Funded entities will collaborate with the Worcester County Health Department, the University of Maryland Extension and other stakeholders to host “Pop-Up” Farmers Markets in low-income, low access areas of the Berlin, Pocomoke and/or Snow Hill communities.

• Community Gardens

Community gardens in Worcester County may request up to $2500 to improve nutritional security in Berlin, Pocomoke, and Snow Hill, MD. Funded organizations must serve Worcester County residents and/or employees, develop and maintain a community garden, grow, harvest, and distribute fresh produce to the community, and partner with WCHD for community education and outreach.

A virtual pre-proposal orientation meeting will be held through Google Meet on January 8, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. If you plan to attend this orientation session, RSVP to Mimi Dean at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Digital application packets for each grant opportunity can be found at worcesterhealth.org/minigrant. Applications must be returned to the Worcester County Health Department (6040 Public Landing Rd. Snow Hill, MD.) by January 26, 2026, no later than 4:30 p.m. A review team will evaluate the applications, and awards will be made after February 13, 2026.

For more information or to request a paper application packet, please call the Worcester County Health Department Prevention Services at 410-632-1100 ext. 1104.