California Communities Initiative

We work to create resilient and healthy communities in California where everyone can thrive. 

David and Lucile Packard believed that philanthropy begins at home, and the Foundation has always been committed to investing locally and establishing partnerships with organizations dedicated to improving the lives of people throughout the region.  

Communities have made significant strides toward creating a future where all can thrive. But challenges rooted in deep inequities persist and the resilience of families who live in poverty is continually tested.   

Through our California Communities initiative, an evolution of our Local Grantmaking Program, we support partners addressing many of the connected and complicated issues that matter to families. This includes increasing families’ access to stable and affordable housing; creating more accessible green spaces and building resilience to the impacts of a changing climate; strengthening community networks delivering high-quality, dependable, and affordable programs and services; and holistically connecting health care, child care, and financial supports to improve the health and wellbeing of every mother and child.  

Our grantmaking is focused in Alameda, Fresno, Monterey, San Benito, San Mateo, Santa Clara, and Santa Cruz Counties, building on decades of collaboration with leaders in these communities. We also pursue statewide opportunities to scale community-led solutions and elevate community voices, so those most impacted by these pressing challenges also have a voice in creating their solutions.