What We Fund

We invest in nonprofit organizations working to advance healthy aging and improve access to healthy food in Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Rhode Island.

In 2022 our grantmaking honored existing relationships and commitments, was proactive, and engaged new organizations in new ways. 

In 2023, we continue to build on what we learned from community organizations:

• Systemic inequities cause health disparities
• Access to affordable, nutritious food is critical, which was underscored during the pandemic
• Older people and communities of color are disproportionately affected in a public health crisis
• Collaborations among nonprofit organizations, municipal agencies and others strengthen community response in a crisis

Addressing inequities

Not all communities have equal access to resources and supports. These disparities affect health and wellbeing and can become more pronounced as we age. The Foundation recognizes that those most affected by inequities are in the best position to define the problem, design appropriate solutions and describe success.

Collaboration is key

Community-led change, especially at the policy and systems level, requires coordination and collaboration. This includes everyone within a community setting—community-based organizations, municipalities, health care providers, social service agencies, businesses and consumers, and importantly, users of programs and services. Organizations that take an integrated approach to address food security and other fundamental needs—and to build thriving, welcoming communities—achieve better outcomes.

We do not fund

• Candidates for public office
• Capital projects and/or equipment
• Development activities, such as fundraising events, capital campaigns, or annual fund drives
• Endowments
• General operating expenses
• Government agencies (unless within a collaboration led by a community-based organization)
• Individuals (including scholarships, internships, and/or fellowships)
• Lobbying
• Organizations that advocate, support or practice discrimination based on race, color, religion, age, national origin, language, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status or other characteristic protected by law
• Private foundations
• Religious organizations for religious purposes
• Research for specific disease states
• Underwriting of medical expenses