Delta Dental of Illinois Foundation is accepting applications for its annual Community Grants Program that has awarded nearly $1 million over the past six years to Illinois organizations dedicated to improving children’s oral health. nnApplications for the 2019 Community Grants Program will be accepted starting on Aug. 1 and ending at 5 p.m. on Oct. 4. The Foundation will award one-year grants ranging from $1,000 to $10,000. nnEligible organizations that focus on children and aim to improve oral health education, awareness and access to care are encouraged to apply. Fill out an online application and learn more about this year’s criteria, philosophy, guidelines here: ddilfoundation.org/grantreq.aspx nn“Poor oral health is one of the most pressing, unmet health care issues facing Illinois children — particularly those living in poverty and rural areas,” said Lora Vitek, director of enterprise philanthropy and community benefit for Delta Dental of Illinois. “We are proud to partner with community organizations to address these issues by expanding oral health education and access to care for children throughout the state.” nnLast year, 21 nonprofit and community organizations received grants totaling more than $180,000. The 2018 grants helped expand dental programs for children with special health care needs; provide oral health orientation, exams and cleanings for homeless teens; and extend outreach efforts in Spanish-speaking communities. nnQualified organizations need to have a physical presence in the state of Illinois and must benefit Illinois children. Applicants can be a public or governmental entity such as a public school or health department or a public charity exempt from federal income taxes. Preference will be given to those who help underserved segments of the population, fulfill a unique need, or have a new and innovative model that can be replicated throughout the state. nnThe 2019 Community Grants will be awarded this fall. Learn more about Delta Dental of Illinois Foundation and its Community Grants Program at deltadentalil.com/ddilfoundation. n