Our Philosophy
Within Judaism, tzedakah and gemilut hasadim represent two distinct but deeply connected obligations: the pursuit of justice and the practice of loving kindness.
Tzedakah comes from tzedek, meaning justice or righteousness, while gemilut hasadim is rooted in hesed; loving kindness, grace, and steadfast love. Together, these traditions inform the Hesed Foundation’s approach to philanthropy.
We believe charitable giving can be an important expression of social justice: addressing immediate needs while also helping individuals and communities build greater opportunity, stability, and self-sufficiency. Jewish tradition teaches that among the highest forms of tzedakah is helping someone become more self-sufficient. This principle, the belief that giving should contribute to lasting improvements in the human condition, is central to our work.
About the Hesed Foundation
The Hesed Foundation is a family foundation dedicated to improving lives and strengthening communities. We support nonprofit organizations working to expand opportunity, promote health and well-being, and meet the needs of people and communities that have historically had fewer resources or opportunities.
We are particularly committed to organizations serving people and communities that have historically been marginalized, underserved, or excluded from opportunity. This includes, among others, immigrants and refugees, LGBTQIA+ people and communities, and individuals and families experiencing poverty or economic insecurity.
Our primary areas of giving include:
- Youth and education
- Health and well-being
- Community building and social services
- Programs that advance opportunity, dignity, and self-sufficiency
We also reserve a portion of our annual giving for discretionary projects that reflect the interests and priorities of the Foundation’s board.
Where We Give
The Hesed Foundation is primarily a place-based funder. Most of our grants support organizations and programs serving communities in:
- New Hampshire
- Eastern Massachusetts
- New York City
- Select communities in Northern California
On occasion, we consider compelling opportunities elsewhere in the United States, particularly when they align closely with the Foundation’s mission or have a meaningful connection to our board. We do not fund projects outside the United States.
Grantmaking
Hesed supports both specific programs and general operating needs. Recent grants have typically ranged from approximately $2,500 to $10,000, with $5,000 representing a common grant amount. From time to time, the Foundation makes larger grants of up to $20,000 for projects with significant potential impact or particular alignment with our priorities.
The Hesed Foundation does not make grants to individuals or political organizations.
Because our grantmaking is intentionally focused, organizations considering approaching the Foundation are encouraged to review our past recipients. They provide the best indication of the types of organizations, communities, and projects we are most likely to support.
Contact us – grants@hesedfoundation.org