The Health Trust’s latest round of grant funding focuses on resilience through capacity building.
San Jose, CA – In 2026, The Health Trust will celebrate its 30th anniversary with a commitment to changing systems that impact the health outcomes of the most vulnerable communities in Silicon Valley. That commitment is reflected in their current grant investments which highlight the growing need for resources to organizations working closely on the front lines, while building their capacity to change systems that continue to create health inequities.
“These grants confront rising health inequities by strengthening the community organizations people rely on every day,” said Dr. Tony Iton, CEO and President of The Health Trust. “From food access and student mental health to economic opportunity and leadership development, we are investing in long term capacity, so families and individuals are supported today, and systems remain strong for the future.”
As part of its 2026 Cycle 3 Grants, The Health Trust is partnering with organizations that expand food access, provide mental health services, strengthen economic opportunities and support the health of Black communities. According to staff, each grant protects the core supports people rely on every day. The docket focuses on keeping essential community infrastructure stable, responsive, and rooted in equity, so families do not fall further behind when systems strain.
Below are the organizations receiving funding during this grant cycle:
Food & Nutrition Focus Area
Community Service Agency: This grant will reduce food insecurity throughout Northern Santa Clara County communities by sustaining vital staff capacity and ensuring continued access to nutritious, culturally relevant food, including fresh produce and high protein items.
Hunger at Home: Funding for the Feeding Future Leaders Program at the Spartan Food Pantry will help to reduce student hunger at San Jose State University. The initiative will also track food security and wellbeing, while building a long-term sustainability plan to ensure students continue to receive reliable access to healthy meals.
Veggielution: The grant will help to remove barriers for low-income entrepreneurs in East San Jose to successfully launch Microenterprise Home Kitchen Operations (MEHKO) businesses. By offsetting certification costs and guiding participants through applications, inspections, and compliance requirements, the program will promote economic stability, food safety, and community health.
Cross-Cutting Focus Area
African American Community Service Agency (AACSA): This grant will enhance the organization’s capacity to deepen the effectiveness of AACSA’s work to provide services to Silicon Valley’s Black/African American community. Through strengthened capacity and ongoing input from clients, families, staff and partners, AACSA will build long term sustainability and expand programs that advance health and wellness.
Health Equity Fund
The Catholic Community Foundation: Funding will help to strengthen the social and emotional wellbeing of students at St. Mary’s in Gilroy by providing counseling and intervention support through the Pillar of Hope Program, prioritizing students and families experiencing economic hardship. The program seeks to expand access to culturally responsive mental health support and close the gaps in care for students facing economic and language barriers.
About The Health Trust:
Founded in 1996, The Health Trust is celebrating 30 years of advancing health and wellbeing in Silicon Valley. The Health Trust invests in system change that improves health outcomes for all residents, with a focus on communities facing the greatest inequities. Through strategic grantmaking, advocacy and partnerships, the organization works to strengthen food access, expand economic opportunities and support community driven solutions. By aligning resources with partner organizations and lived experience, The Health Trust helps build a healthier, more equitable future for Silicon Valley. For more information visit https://www.thehealthtrust.org
Media Contact:
Karen Napoletano
Email: karenn@healthtrust.org
