Governor Abbott announced that the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) will grant $128 million to aid rural hospitals and nursing facilities while in the COVID-19 pandemic through the federal American Rescue Plan Act.
Authorized in Senate Bill 8, the act will provide funds to support critical staffing needs.
In a statement, Governor Abbott said, “This funding will provide vital support to rural hospitals, nursing facilities, and other health care providers across the state who continue working tirelessly to combat COVID-19. We are grateful for the continued efforts of our health care professionals who compassionately serve their fellow Texans.”
HHSC will disburse grants to the legally authorized representatives of about 1,200 eligible nursing facilities and 150 eligible rural hospitals in January 2022.
The representatives will have 15 business days to sign the agreement. Grantees will be required to submit documents to the HHSC explaining their use of the funds six months after receiving the award.
Additionally, in early 2022, long-term care providers will be given the opportunity to apply for competitive grants totaling $325.3 million. Information regarding applications will be posted to the HHSC website at a later time.
For additional information about the Healthcare Relief Grant program, visit: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/business/grants/covid-19-healthcare-relief-grants.
