The Evidence to Practice Grants Program, co-ordinated by the Cancer Institute NSW, gives health and community organisations resources to implement programs that focus on groups at a higher risk of cancer.

NSW Health Minister Jillian Skinner said communities with higher smoking rates, low uptake of cancer screening services and those at a higher risk of deadly skin cancer would be among the biggest beneficiaries.

"Many cancers diagnosed are preventable and for cancers such as breast and bowel, the earlier they are detected, the better the outcomes," she said.

"These programs will see local health professionals and community organisations work together to take positive action in their communities to reduce the burden of cancer."

The $100,000 grant to the Far West Local Health District would aim to reduce the rates of smoking in pregnant Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal women by engaging them before pregnancy, during antenatal and postnatal visits, at childbirth and for ongoing follow-up at child and family health clinics and GP practices.

According to the Cancer Institute, the program would build on existing intervention and nicotine replacement therapy services but would include motivational interviewing and other psychological and social support.

Baradine Central School also received a $50,000 grant to build shade structures in outdoor learning, eating, assembly and agricultural areas.

They were one of 11 schools and organisations to be given funding for shade provision.