By Trish Svoboda
KC Healthy Kids has announced they received a $1 million donation from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott, through her charity, Yield Giving. This gift was given to KC Healthy Kids as one of over 250 U.S. nonprofits chosen from Scott’s inaugural grant application process, which received more than 6,000 submissions.
“This award represents the largest gift in our nearly two-decade history, and recognizes and confirms our impact advancing the health and well-being of kids in our community,” said Danielle Robbins-Gregory, president and CEO of KC Healthy Kids. “This generous contribution sets the stage for expanding our efforts and deepening our partnerships to create environments that promote healthy living for kids and families in our region.”
In March 2023, Yield Giving initiated an Open Call targeting organizations that are community-led and community-focused, with the aim to empower individuals and families to enhance their well-being through essential resources. This Open Call was coordinated in collaboration with Lever for Change, a nonprofit subsidiary of the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, which serves as a bridge between donors and innovative solutions to the world’s most pressing issues.
“The past four years have reshaped our world, underscoring the critical need for resources and support to address the ongoing physical and mental health challenges facing our youth,” said Kavitha Dileepan, MD, MPH, chairperson of KC Healthy Kids’ board of directors and pediatric endocrinologist at Children’s Mercy Kansas City. “This remarkable gift from Yield Giving represents a significant moment, and will make a lasting and positive impact on our organization’s ability to address systemic obstacles for local kids and their families.”
You can learn more about KC Healthy Kids at the annual Eat Local & Organic Expo for KC Food Circle taking place on Saturday, April 6 at Johnson County Community College.
This family-friendly event is free and open to the public. Visit the KC Healthy Kids website for more information.
