Best School Health Grants in California

California school food authorities and eligible local educational agencies can receive reimbursement funding to provide free fresh fruit and vegetable snacks to elementary students during the school day. California school health programs can access funding through the CA Department of Education’s Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program, which also promotes nutrition education and encourages state and local implementation partnerships.

Nonprofit organizations providing school-based health, early childhood development, or related services in California can apply for one-year grants of US $10,000 - US $25,000. With a mission to help children from low-income families thrive, Sills Family Foundation supports programs in school health, family services, environmental justice, arts education, and immigrant and refugee support.

Local education agencies in California serving students in grades 6–12 can apply for California Department of Education’s Tobacco-Use Prevention and Youth Engagement Grant; awards up to US $75,000 for school-based tobacco prevention and education. Funding supports multi-year programs from 2026–2029 that strengthen school health and reduce youth tobacco and vaping use.

Grants from CA Department of Education help California public school districts, county offices of education, and charter schools improve school nutrition and health through kitchen upgrades, staff training, and recruitment and retention of nutrition professionals. Eligible School Food Authorities operating NSLP and SBP can apply for competitive awards around US $2,500 to enhance Universal Meals and school health initiatives.

Public school districts, county offices of education, direct-funded charter schools, private schools, and residential child care institutions in California can apply to fund free fresh fruit and vegetable snacks for eligible elementary students. Focused on school nutrition, the California Department of Education’s Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program supports school health initiatives at sites meeting National School Lunch Program and low-income criteria.

Schools and 501(c)(3) nonprofits in California operating school-based garden or classroom cooking programs can apply for the Sprouting School Gardens Grant, offering up to US $5,000 for direct program expenses. Focused on school health, the Sprouts Healthy Communities Foundation supports garden operations, supplies, and educator stipends on school campuses near Sprouts Farmers Market locations.

RBC Foundation – USA aims to enhance community quality of life by supporting non-profit organizations that promote diversity and positive change. In 2023, it awarded over $2.8 million in grants, prioritizing youth programs for ages 15-29, arts access for diverse populations, and mental well-being initiatives. The foundation encourages sustainable projects that foster economic independence, providing critical support for education, mental health, and cultural enrichment, thereby making a significant impact across various communities.

Local educational agencies implementing COVID-19 prevention strategies to protect student health can seek support through this federal Project SAFE program, including those in California. With a mission to strengthen school safety, the Office of Elementary & Secondary Education provides resources to LEAs that are financially penalized by their state for following CDC-aligned guidance.

School nurses conducting future research on school health and school-aged children can apply for NASN research grants, with awards from US $1,000 - US $25,000. With a mission to advance quality school nursing practice, the National Association of School Nurses provides U.S. school health researchers, including those in California, with funding for proposal, design, and implementation of studies.

Student health centers and American College Health Association members in California can seek funding to develop innovative practices that improve college students’ access to quality health care. The American College Health Foundation offers up to US $3,500 for projects addressing student needs, service awareness and utilization, care delivery methods, technology integration, and campus partnerships.

Audiologists and speech-language pathologists employed by school systems who advance school-based audiology or speech-language services can receive US $2,500 through this national award. Focused on school health and communication disorders, the American Speech Language Hearing Foundation honors exemplary clinical work, innovative programs, or efforts that strengthen support for these services, including in California schools.

California schools seeking to start or strengthen in-school food pantries for student nutrition and school health can receive support through the Stop & Shop School Food Pantry Program. Stop & Shop Helping Hands partners directly with pre-K through college campuses to establish or bolster on-site food pantries; Boston and New York City borough schools are currently ineligible.

K-12 school districts in California that self-operate their meal programs and participate in the National School Lunch Program can receive multi-year support to shift from heat-and-serve to scratch cooking models. With a mission to improve school food, Chef Ann Foundation provides technical assistance, strategic planning, and system improvement grants to strengthen school health and nutrition programs.

California 501(c)(3) nonprofits providing school meals, food pantries, or other hunger relief in eligible rural counties can access funding through Land O'Lakes Foundation; awards US $1,000 - US $20,000 for local programs. Grants prioritize food access, school health, and community food security in Land O’Lakes dairy member-owner communities.

School food professionals working under the National School Lunch Program in California can apply for the Healthy School Food Pathway Fellowship from the Chef Ann Foundation, a 13‑month leadership and school nutrition development program. Fellows deepen expertise in school health topics like nutrition, policy, and sustainability, with coursework, site visits, and a capstone project grant.

Graduating high school seniors pursuing a nursing degree and residing in Independent School District #813 may be eligible for this scholarship supporting nursing education. Grants from Greater Lake City Community Foundation help students with strong academics, school involvement, and community service further their studies, which may benefit future school health efforts, including in California.

K-12 schools in California participating in the National School Lunch Program can apply for school nutrition equipment grants to expand access to healthy meals and support student wellness. Focused on school health, National Dairy Council offers US $2,000 equipment kits that boost access to and consumption of dairy products like milk, yogurt, and cheese.

Focused on nutrition education, eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofits in California can seek funding for programs that teach students and families about healthy eating, from seed to plate. The Ann B Zekauskas Family Foundation supports school-based and community initiatives that promote food awareness, access, and wellness, which may benefit school health efforts.

The Levin Family Foundation Grant supports nonprofits focused on critical issues in Montgomery County, Ohio, such as the opiate epidemic, human trafficking, anti-bullying, and suicide prevention. Established in 1996, the foundation has invested over $12 million globally, emphasizing projects that align with its mission. Eligible organizations must be IRS 501(c)(3) tax-exempt. Priority is given to initiatives in the Greater Dayton Area, fostering positive community impact.

Emeril's Culinary Garden & Teaching Kitchen Grants support K-8 schools in enhancing culinary and gardening education. Schools must be 501c3 nonprofits with established programs, demonstrating the ability to impact students positively. The initiative focuses on fostering appreciation for food sources, developing life skills, and promoting healthy eating. Schools are encouraged to mentor others and must provide dedicated gardening and culinary instruction to all students. This program aims to empower children with essential skills that will benefit them throughout their lives.

The Crail-Johnson Foundation focuses on enhancing the well-being of children and families in Los Angeles through grants aimed at Health, Human Services, and Education. It supports non-profit organizations that provide essential services, prioritizing communities such as San Pedro and Watts. The Foundation emphasizes mental health, access to care, and innovative programs for disadvantaged youth. Grants are typically one-year, with a focus on systemic change and proven approaches to community health and education.

International Paper Grants focus on community engagement, emphasizing education, hunger relief, health & wellness, and disaster relief. They support nonprofit organizations that demonstrate good financial standing and effective management. Eligible organizations must operate in areas where International Paper has facilities. The foundation prioritizes local needs, particularly critical and environmental issues, while encouraging employee involvement. Ineligible entities include private foundations and those without a local presence. Applications are accepted through mid-September in the U.S. and Canada.

McCormick & Company, Inc. actively supports charitable contributions through its Charitable Donations Committee (CDC), which prioritizes donations to non-profit organizations that enhance education, health, environment, and culture. The CDC focuses on organizations that benefit communities where McCormick employees live and work, ensuring a positive impact. Eligible groups must be tax-exempt and demonstrate a commitment to non-discrimination. However, donations are not made to individuals, political organizations, or entities that conflict with corporate values.

The Hearst Foundation: Culture Grant aims to support outstanding nonprofits that enhance cultural engagement and artistic talent in the U.S. With a focus on programs that reach young people, the grant prioritizes organizations that create lasting impacts in the arts and sciences. The Foundation allocates 25% of its funding to cultural initiatives, favoring established organizations with a history of significant results. Eligible nonprofits must encourage inclusivity and sustainability in their programs.

The TJX Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations located within 15 miles of a TJX store that align with their community mission. Eligible areas include basic needs, education for at-risk youth, workforce training, and safety from domestic violence. Organizations must be a registered 501(c)(3) for at least 12 months and have a nondiscrimination policy. Applications are invited through a Letter of Inquiry, with funding decisions based on community impact.

The Scaife Family Foundation Grant has been supporting vulnerable community members for nearly 40 years, providing over $180 million in donations to non-profits. The Foundation aims to match organizations with aligned goals, focusing on women and children, addiction prevention, and animal welfare. It offers grants for general operating and program support, prioritizing impactful programs that address societal issues. Notably, the Foundation considers proposals that foster healthy relationships and promote treatment for addiction, enhancing the welfare of both humans and animals.

J.B. Hunt Transport Services offers financial support for various community projects through its Company Giving program. Focused on four key areas—Health Care, Veterans' Support, Education, and Crisis Management—this initiative aims to enhance the well-being of local communities. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, schools, and civic groups, while organizations that primarily benefit their members or have high management overhead may be excluded. The program underscores J.B. Hunt's commitment to corporate social responsibility.