The Sun Life Health Access Hero Awards program is a philanthropic initiative designed to support and celebrate efforts that increase access to vital health services, particularly for underserved communities. The program has a dual-track approach: it provides programmatic grant funding to nonprofit organizations and recognizes individual changemakers who have made significant contributions to improving health outcomes in their communities. The initiative is rooted in Sun Life’s commitment to addressing the link between oral health and diabetes, as well as related public health issues affecting marginalized populations.

The purpose of the Health Access Hero Awards is to foster and promote innovative programs and individuals dedicated to improving access to healthcare, with a specific focus on diabetes prevention, management, and education, as well as oral health equity. This includes addressing obesity, nutritional awareness, food insecurity, and oral disease prevention. The initiative seeks to spotlight those who are creating measurable and meaningful impacts in communities that often face health disparities.

For the grant track, 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations may apply for funding to support programs that align with the award’s focus areas. Applicants can choose from three funding levels: $25,000, $50,000, or $100,000, based on the scope and scale of their proposed projects. The funding is intended to support activities that expand access to care and education, particularly within high-need populations. Individual award recipients are also recognized, with each selected changemaker receiving a $10,000 donation made to a charity of their choice.

Eligible applicants must be nonprofit organizations registered under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. There are no specified geographic restrictions, suggesting national eligibility. Priority is given to programs and individuals working within the specified focus areas, including diabetes and oral health. Individual nominations are encouraged for those making an impact in these domains, and selection is based on innovation, dedication, and measurable community outcomes.

Applications for the grant are currently open, with a submission window from February 1 through April 30. Applications will be reviewed from May 1 to June 30, during which submissions are short-listed and evaluated by a national judging panel. Recipients will be notified between July and August, and a public announcement will follow in September. All applications must be submitted through the designated online portals; email submissions are not accepted.

The evaluation criteria for both grant and individual award tracks focus on the potential and demonstrated impact of the applicant’s work, alignment with the award’s focus areas, and the ability to scale or sustain positive health outcomes. The program highlights successful applicants through various marketing channels, including Sun Life’s website and social media, providing broader recognition and visibility for their efforts.