Grant Guidelines

The Heckscher Foundation for Children was founded in 1921 to promote the welfare of children, primarily in New York City. We fund organizations serving youth in the fields of education, family services, job training, health, arts and recreation. The Foundation’s giving takes the form of program support, capacity-building, capital projects and general operating support. The Foundation does not participate in annual appeals, endowments, fundraising events or political efforts.

The Heckscher Foundation for Children seeks to "level the playing field" for underserved youth. In all of our giving activities, we stress the achievement of positive, measureable, clear outcomes and are particularly interested in programs that are prepared to critically evaluate their work. 

The Heckscher Foundation provides support in the following categories:

  • Education & Academic Support
  • Arts
  • Social Services
  • Health
  • Recreation
  • Workforce Development
  • Other

The links in the left column provide guidelines for specific program areas.