David and Lucile Packard believed that philanthropy begins at home. The Foundation has always been committed to investing locally and establishing partnerships with organizations and leaders working to improve the lives of people throughout the region we call home. 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, we support partners addressing many of the complex and connected issues that matter to families. This includes increasing families’ access to stable and affordable housing; ensuring access to clean air and water and building resilience to the impacts of a changing climate; and strengthening community voice, networks, and anchor organizations that bolster communities. In select communities, we will focus on improving the health and well-being of mothers and children in partnership with the Children and Families Initiative. 

Our grantmaking is focused in 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.