Newman’s Own Foundation: Food Justice for Kids Prize Grant

Newman’s Own Foundation is offering the Food Justice for Kids Prize, providing up to $100,000 in grant funding over two years for organizations promoting food justice for children in the U.S. This initiative focuses on Indigenous Food Justice and Nutrition Education, addressing the high rates of food insecurity among children, particularly in marginalized communities. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, public schools, and tribes that serve children under 18. The foundation aims to ensure all kids have access to nutritious food and education on sustainable food systems.

Is your organization working towards food justice for kids in the United States? If so, this is your chance to receive up to $100,000 in grant funding over the next 2 years and deepen your impact!
We’re seeking applications from organizations working in two priority program areas:

• Indigenous Food JusticeNutrition Education and School Food
• Why Food Justice for Kids

In the United States, more than 1 in 6 children (13.4 million) live in households where they do not have enough nutritious food to eat or know where their next meal may come from. This rate is significantly higher for some populations. For example, 1 in 5 American Indian and Alaska Native households are food insecure. We know what can work, as increased funding for nutrition assistance programs during the pandemic led to a significant decrease in childhood hunger. However, much of that progress was lost starting in 2022, with the termination of those benefits.
Food insecurity is associated with several adverse outcomes, including delayed development, chronic diseases (such as asthma and anemia), and increased anxiety and depression. Such outcomes can limit children’s ability to live healthful lifestyles, thrive, and realize their full potential.
Newman’s Own Foundation envisions the United States as a country where all children have access to nutritious, culturally relevant foods; learn about healthy foods and sustainable food systems; and have opportunities to grow, gather, and cook food and be nourished physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
About the Prize
Up to $1M in total funding (over two years) is available for nonprofits, public schools, and tribes working to advance food justice for kids in the United States and its territories.
As many as 10 applicants (5 for each of our priority program areas) will receive up to $50,000 each in 2024, with the opportunity for an additional grant of up to $50,000 each in 2025. In 2026 and beyond, these grantee partners may be eligible for further funding.
Applicants who reach the finalist stage may also be considered for a $10,000 grant awarded through the Newman’s Own Foundation Community Choice Award.
In addition to receiving a grant of up to $50,000, the Food Justice for Kids grantee partners will have the opportunity to participate in a learning cohort, meeting periodically throughout the year (virtually) to network, share best practices, and engage in activities that can be leveraged for greater growth and impact. Grantee partners will then have an opportunity in 2025 to apply for an additional grant of up to $50,000.

Eligibility

We welcome applications from all eligible organizations, and in particular seek to be inclusive of organizations led by and/or representing historically marginalized and under-represented groups, including Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC).Eligible programs must serve and/or benefit children under 18. Projects that focus on youth across a mix of ages, for example 16-24, should specify the number or percentage of children under 18 who are taking part in the project. We do welcome past recipients of Newman’s Own Foundation grants to apply.Concept or program must have already launched.Projects at or beyond pilot stage will be considered.The following types of organizations are eligible to apply:501c3 Public CharitiesFederally recognized tribesIndian tribal governments (IRS, section 7871)U.S. Public Schools and School DistrictsU.S. governmental entities or affiliated organizations that are eligible to receive 501c3 fundingYou may also apply via a 501c3 Public Charity Fiscal Sponsor

Ineligibility

Projects that serve a majority of stakeholders over the age of 18 are unlikely to be considered.Current grantees are not eligible for the Food Justice for Kids Prize, as they will be considered for funding during our annual grant application process.