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Investing in health. Strengthening our community.

The Community Health Foundation exists to improve the health of the citizens of Kay County through programming, education, scholarships, partnerships, and grants.

$2,480,372+

Awarded in grants

since 2006

$86,282+

Invested in Community Health Education

$495,825

Invested in Scholarships for Kay County students

50+

Healthcare workers 

recognized

​Empowering Our Community

Our goal isn’t just to fund programs, but to make a meaningful difference where our community needs it most. We do this by investing in scholarships that encourage local students to return home and serve Kay County, supporting organizations and projects that align with our health priorities, and providing community health education to keep people informed as healthcare continues to change. Knowledge is power, and in healthcare, the right knowledge can save lives.

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We were founded on the belief that local dollars should make a local impact, and that’s exactly what we continue to do. 

ABout us

The Community Health Foundation of Kay County was established in 2006 following the sale of nonprofit Via Christi Hospital to a for-profit hospital. Recognizing the need to continue supporting local healthcare, the hospital’s board worked to establish an independent, endowed foundation dedicated to serving the community. Today, CHF continues that mission by investing in local organizations, healthcare education, scholarships, and programs that improve health and quality of life throughout Kay County. Our commitment remains the same: keeping local dollars in our community and working together to build a healthier future for all.

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Photograph of Ponca City Hospital. Photo taken by Meyers Photo Shop, c. 1933.

Our Vision, Mission, and Values

Our Vision

A healthier Kay County through the lasting impact of the Community Health Foundation’s efforts and investments. Not just by funding programs, but by creating meaningful change, improving health outcomes, and making measurable progress on the issues that matter most to our community.

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Our Mission

To improve the health and quality of life of Kay County residents through programming, education, scholarships, partnerships, and grants.

 

Our Values

Partnership: Building strong relationships with local health-related organizations, healthcare providers, and community partners.

Integrity: Upholding the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and accountability.

Stewardship: Responsibly managing our resources to maximize our impact on local organizations, health initiatives, and scholarships.

Inclusivity: Supporting the health and well-being of all Kay County residents, regardless of age, gender, race, or socioeconomic status.

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Our Strategic Priorites 2025-2027

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Physcial Activity
Nutrition
Mental Health
Access to Care

Investing in making a difference

Grants & Funding Requests

Additional Funding Opportunities

Additional funding may be available throughout the year, depending on our budget and the grant requests we receive. We award funding on a first-come, first-served basis, and all requests must align with our priorities: Physical Activity, Nutrition, Mental Health, or Access to Care.

Community Education

Health education is central to our mission. Whether you're offering a wellness class, hosting a Medicare conference, or helping our community better understand healthcare, we want to hear from you. Education can save lives, and funding is available! Apply using the link below.

Annual Grant Application

Our largest funding opportunity of the year helps shape our annual budget and how much we can reinvest in Kay County. If your nonprofit is working to improve health through Physical Activity, Nutrition, Mental Health, or Access to Care, we encourage you to apply! Together, we can support local programs that make a meaningful difference in our community.

Applications are due August 15th each year.

Learn About This Year's Grantees

A total of $139,058 awarded to local grantees.

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Continuing Education Reimbursement 

Healthcare professionals currently working in Kay County may apply for reimbursement for continuing education courses that support their professional practice, provided their employer did not pay for the courses. Reimbursement is available up to $850 per provider per year. The CHF Board must approve applications, and submission does not guarantee funding. Providers may apply before taking a course and receive approval in advance. To receive reimbursement, submit proof of enrollment and a certificate of completion within 30 days of course completion.

First come, first serve basis

Investing in the Future Health Care Workers in Kay County

Apply for Scholarships

01

Highschool Senior Scholarships

Graduating Seniors from Kay County, Oklahoma High Schools are eligible to apply for this scholarship. Recipients must plan to attend an accredited educational institution with intent to obtain a degree, license, or certification in a healthcare-related field of study. Recipients must have an outstanding academic record, as demonstrated by a high GPA (3.0 or better) and/or SAT scores above the 50th percentile and/or an ACT composite score above 20 and in the top 50% of their class. Scholarships are $500 each. 

Deadline: March 1, 2027

02

Northern Oklahoma College Nursing Scholarships

Northern Oklahoma College Nursing students are eligible to apply for this scholarship. Recipients must be currently enrolled in the NOC nursing program and must have an outstanding academic record, as demonstrated by a high GPA (3.0 or better) and/or SAT scores above the 50th percentile and/or an ACT composite score above 20.  Applicants must include a professor recommendation letter, and we will give preference to students planning to reside in Kay County upon graduation. We will award five fall and five spring $1000 scholarships.

Fall Deadline: September 30, 2026

Spring Deadline: January 31, 2027

03

Pioneer Tech LPN Scholarships

Pioneer Tech LPN Students are eligible for scholarships. Please contact Michelle Trip at Pioneer Tech to apply. Fall & Spring are available

04

Healthcare Studies Scholarship

Students from Kay County, OK, currently enrolled in an accredited educational institution and pursuing a degree, certificate, or license in any healthcare field are eligible to apply for this scholarship unless they are enrolled as a nursing student at either NOC or Pioneer Technology, as those students are eligible for other Foundation scholarships. Recipients must have an outstanding academic record, as demonstrated by a high GPA (3.0 or better) and/or SAT scores above the 50th percentile and/or an ACT composite score above 20. Preference will be given to students who plan to reside in Kay County after graduation. Scholarship awards are $500 to  $1000 each.  Students may apply once per year.

​Spring 2026 Semester Application is open:  8/1/26 - 9/30/26

 Fall 2026 Semester Application is open: 4/1/27 - 5/31/27

Get Involved

Join us in our mission to improve community health. Your time, talent, and resources make a direct impact on the lives of neighbors in need. Explore the many ways you can contribute to a healthier future for everyone.

COMMUNITY HEALTH FOUNDATION IN ACTION

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