TROY, MICHIGAN – The Kresge Foundation’s long-standing interest in the fields of health and the environment has led to the formation, in June 2008, of two major, comprehensive programs: the Health Program and the Environment Program.

Historically, the foundation has worked in six fields of interest: health, the environment, arts and culture, education, human services and community development. With the announcement of these two new programs in health and the environment, the foundation is expanding its commitment and narrowing its focus in each field for maximum, long-term impact in strategic areas.

In June 2007, Kresge announced it was beginning a multi-year transition to expand its grantmaking to better address society’s pressing issues. Since then, it has elevated nine values to serve as the centerpiece of its philanthropic decision-making and it has expanded access to its signature Challenge Grant.

Both the Health and Environment Programs address health and environment-related social issues, particularly those affecting minority, low-income and other underserved communities. The programs are in the development stage; program teams will be refining their grantmaking focus and strategy over the next year.

“We are interested in working with organizations that advance Kresge’s values and address health issues associated with the natural, built and social environments of low-income communities,” says David D. Fukuzawa, senior program officer and Health Team leader. “Our goal is to assist in the creation of safe, healthy communities for underserved populations.”

The Environment Program seeks to the have tangible effects on the practices and policies associated with climate change and environmental sustainability. “We are particularly interested in strategies that cut across sectors and disciplines,” says Lois R. DeBacker, program director and Environment Team leader.

To learn more about each program, their goals, eligibility criteria and processes for submission of project ideas, visit the Health Program and Environment Program.

If you have questions, visit How to Apply or call 248-643-9630.