The Emergent & Relief Fund is a grantmaking initiative offered by the CareQuest Institute to address systemic inequities in oral health, particularly those affecting historically underserved communities. Recognizing that the current health care infrastructure is insufficiently equipped to meet the needs of these populations, the fund aims to catalyze responsive and innovative approaches in the field of oral health. This program supports targeted interventions that seek to transform care delivery, support communities in times of crisis, and address sudden disruptions in clinical access.

This fund focuses on three primary strategic outcomes. First, it supports the development of innovative responses within the oral health sector that align with evolving consumer needs, both during and beyond public health emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic. Second, it provides immediate relief to communities affected by unforeseen circumstances such as natural disasters. Third, it helps address urgent clinical issues that impact direct access to oral care, particularly for historically marginalized groups.

Applications should reflect a commitment to serving marginalized populations and must incorporate one or more of CareQuest Institute’s five cross-cutting dimensions: Health and Racial Equity; Social Determinants of Health and Oral Health; Community-Centered Measurement; Learning and Capacity Building; and Innovation in Oral Health. Applicants must clearly articulate how their proposed projects aim to respond to inequities and improve outcomes for underserved communities.

CareQuest Institute does not provide funding to individuals, nor does it support capital expenditures, operating expenses, direct services, mobile vans, or payments for clinical procedures. Eligible organizations must hold 501(c)(3) nonprofit status. Proposals may be submitted by local, state, or national partners, provided they meet these criteria and demonstrate alignment with the fund’s focus areas.

No specific timeline or deadline information is provided in the available description. Interested organizations are encouraged to apply for funding directly through the CareQuest Institute's application platform. Full eligibility requirements, application questions, and evaluation criteria are expected to be outlined during the application process.