Basic Needs Fund Helps Fill the Gap of Life’s Essentials
Among other challenges, about one in six people in New Haven do not reliably have access to nutritious food
In 2020, philanthropist Karen Pritzker, President of the Seedlings Foundation, established the Basic Needs Fund and was joined by other funders who shared her commitment to helping families thrive by providing the essentials.
Among other challenges, about one in six people in New Haven — and one in 10 in Connecticut — do not reliably have access to nutritious food, according to an analysis of U.S. census data by DataHaven.
First grants from the Fund totaling $160,000 were made earlier this year to 11 organizations. Donors, along with others providing services, advise about the Fund. Along with Pritzker, the Fund's Advisory Committee includes David Goldblum (Chair); Andrew Eder; Todd Foster; Lindy Lee Gold; Joanne Goldblum; William Graustein; Kica Matos; Roslyn Milstein Meyer; Joellen Putnam; Natasha Ray; Amos Smith and Shellina Toure. In addition to making grant recommendations and collaborating on learning, the Committee has committed to doubling the Fund to $6M.
The Fund’s purpose is to help ensure that all New Haven area residents have the basic needs of daily life and to promote the dignity of people who need financial assistance. Learn more about the Basic Needs Fund, and how you can help.
