Best Human and Social Service Grants in California

The Community Possible Grant Program by U.S. Bank aims to foster economic and workforce advancement, as well as safe and affordable housing. By partnering with 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, the program seeks to drive lasting change within communities through collaborative grantmaking. Priority is given to organizations that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, and that address multiple pillars of work, home, and play. This initiative reflects U.S. Bank's commitment to creating a more equitable society.

Nonprofit small or rural health facilities in California can obtain low-interest loans for facility construction, renovation, equipment, and related pre-construction costs through the Healthcare Expansion Loan Program II, with awards from US $25,000 - US $1,500,000. California State Treasurer's Office support may benefit human and social service providers operating licensed health clinics and hospitals.

Nonprofit and governmental organizations running humanitarian, social, education, and community programs in California may be eligible for this support, especially if they serve Amgen communities like Ventura County or the San Francisco Bay Area. The Amgen Foundation supports non-healthcare charitable programs, including human and social services, literacy, science education, and volunteerism, with some opportunities for nationwide U.S. initiatives.

Grants support California 501(c)(3) nonprofits and public agencies working on criminal justice reform, immigrant and workers’ rights, and civil rights. Grants from Rosenberg Foundation help California human and social service organizations advance policy advocacy, grassroots organizing, leadership development, and reentry services for low-income communities and communities of color, with awards up to US $100,000.

California human and social service nonprofits working globally on health, education, or disaster relief can access funding through Semnani Family Foundation to support marginalized communities. Organizations serving vulnerable populations in the U.S. or any of the foundation’s international focus countries may be eligible for projects in healthcare access, humanitarian aid, child welfare, literacy, and related services.

The Sidney Stern Memorial Trust Grant supports charitable, scientific, medical, and educational organizations that are 501(c)(3) certified. This private funder emphasizes impactful service to diverse populations without discrimination. Grants must be utilized within the United States and cannot be awarded to individuals, political candidates, or lobbying efforts. The Trust is dedicated to enhancing the general welfare through soundly-managed initiatives that contribute significantly to community needs.

Nonprofit organizations providing human and social services such as early childhood education, family crisis support, refugee services, or violence prevention in California can apply for Sills Family Foundation grants. Sills Family Foundation provides California human services nonprofits with US $10,000 - US $25,000 one-year awards, often for general operating needs, with possible renewals.

Legal services nonprofits, solo practitioners, and small law firms pursuing impact litigation for human, civil, economic, environmental, or social justice in California can seek recoverable grants covering out-of-pocket litigation costs. The Impact Fund awards US $10,000 - US $50,000, prioritizing filed or imminent cases that benefit communities facing systemic oppression and aim for significant law reform.

The Dudley T. Dougherty Foundation Grant supports nonprofit charitable organizations recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Revenue Code. Established in 2002, the foundation aims to empower groups committed to positive change, fostering respect for life and the environment. Their vision emphasizes collaboration for a better future, encouraging applicants to embody these values in their initiatives. With a focus on impactful projects, this grant is an opportunity for organizations striving to make a critical difference in our world.

California tax-exempt charitable organizations providing human and social services, youth opportunities, or other humanitarian programs can seek 12-month project funding that improves social conditions and human welfare. Focused on medical services, housing, emergency and community programs, and related efforts, the Henry L Guenther Foundation primarily benefits residents in Southern California.

California 501(c)(3) organizations providing human and social services, basic needs, education, or enrichment programs can access funding through Bank of Marin. Grants support social and economic vitality, financial literacy and youth development, arts and cultural access, wellness, and environmental programs across Alameda, Amador, Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, Placer, Sacramento, San Francisco, San Mateo, and Sonoma Counties.

The Spark Good: Strengthening Community Local Grants program by the Wal-Mart Foundation empowers local organizations through grants ranging from $250 to $5000. This initiative aims to enhance community welfare by supporting diverse projects, including animal shelters and educational programs. Eligible organizations must have a verified Spark Good account, ensuring funds are allocated effectively to meet local needs and foster community development. Together, we can create lasting impacts through small yet significant actions.

The Dr. Scholl Foundation offers grants annually to IRS 501(c)(3) organizations, primarily focusing on U.S. applicants. The foundation supports projects in education, social services, healthcare, civic and cultural initiatives, and environmental efforts. While the grant cycle runs from October 1 to March 1, it encourages innovative solutions to global challenges. Only one application per organization is accepted each year, and funding is limited to one year. Unqualified organizations, including political entities, are ineligible.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations promoting seniors’ health, independence, and social interaction in Northern California can seek funding for education, health, and human services programs. Bethlehem Foundation supports human and social service initiatives that enhance quality of life for senior adults in California; applications are accepted year-round with spring and fall review deadlines.

California 501(c)(3) organizations providing human and social services can apply for funding to support health, human services, and related educational initiatives, with awards ranging from US $10,000 - US $30,000. Focused on charitable causes in Davis and Yolo County, the Mr. and Mrs. G. Kirk Swingle Foundation prioritizes local community benefit, including support for UC Davis scholarships in sheep raising.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations providing human and social services in Monterey County, California can apply for Harden Foundation grants of US $5,000 - US $100,000 to support programs and operations. Grants may fund general support, special projects, capital needs, and initiatives benefiting children, families, seniors, health, community services, and related human services across California’s Monterey County.

Nonprofit arts organizations using creative programming to address environmental or climate issues in California and across the U.S. can seek funding for operations and community-focused arts work. The Wilhelm Family Foundation supports small 501(c)(3) arts groups, including those serving marginalized or underserved communities, and may consider fiscally sponsored projects.

Nonprofit and governmental agencies in California’s Sacramento region providing HIV prevention, testing, or supportive services can apply for grants supporting programs or general operations. Cares Foundation prioritizes outreach, PrEP/PEP education, testing with linkage to care, and unreimbursed supportive services like housing, transportation, substance use treatment, and case management for people living with HIV and high-risk populations.

California community-based organizations and partners working on urban forestry, climate resilience, and outdoor equity in California can access funding through CAL FIRE, with awards from US $150,000 - US $3,000,000. Supported projects expand urban tree canopy, engage residents in planning and tree care, and prioritize disadvantaged or low‑income communities facing extreme heat, flooding, or limited green job pathways.

Nonprofit organizations and fiscally sponsored groups providing human and social services in California, specifically serving San Luis Obispo County, can seek two-year general operating support from the San Luis Obispo County Community Foundation. Grants of US $20,000 - US $40,000 back work in health and human services, seniors and people with disabilities, arts and culture, and environmental initiatives.

501(c)(3) nonprofits in California serving Los Angeles County residents can apply for the Adams-Mastrovich Family Foundation’s grants, awarding US $5,000 - US $20,000 for human and social services, health, education, religion, and the arts. Programs supporting women facing domestic violence, mental illness, poverty, housing instability, or job readiness may be especially competitive.

The Mutual of America Foundation Community Partnership Award honors exemplary nonprofit organizations in the U.S. that foster collaborative partnerships across sectors. Annually, a national competition showcases numerous organizations demonstrating impactful community partnerships. Six organizations receive recognition, including the Thomas J. Moran Award, which offers $100,000, and the Frances R. Hesselbein Award, granting $75,000. Since 1996, the award has acknowledged 262 partnerships, emphasizing Mutual of America's commitment to societal improvement through collaboration.

California 501(c)(3) organizations seeking support for education or broader human and social service programming can apply for grants from the Wheeler Charitable Trust. Focused on education and related charitable causes, the trust primarily supports organizations in California and Washington across areas including health, human services, arts, public benefit, and religion.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations or fiscally sponsored groups delivering mission-focused work in San Luis Obispo County can apply for San Luis Obispo County Community Foundation’s general community grants, with awards up to US $20,000. Funding can support arts and culture, environmental education, health and human services, and programs for seniors and people with disabilities in California communities.

Eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofits in California, especially those serving Orange County with human and social services, education, health, arts, environment, or community development programs, can apply for Pacific Life Foundation’s program and capital grants, awarding US $15,000 - US $100,000. Funding can support multi-year programmatic, operating, collaborative, or major capital projects.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations providing human and social services in California can apply for Hesed Foundation grants ranging from US $250 - US $10,000. Grants from Hesed Foundation help fund youth and education, health, and community-building programs, particularly for underrepresented populations in eligible Northern California counties.

About Us

Founded in 1940 by George and Grace Hoag and their son, George Grant Hoag II, the George Hoag Family Foundation is committed to making a positive difference in the communities it serves by improving social conditions, promoting human welfare and alleviating pain and suffering.

Over 75 years later, the family continues its long tradition of philanthropy and strives to be responsive to the changing community needs.

What We Fund

Currently, the foundation is focused on safety-net issues and basic need grants.

The Foundation primarily applies its resources to benefit California residents through funding healthcare programs, social service programs, and youth-oriented organizations.

Read FAQ for additional informations.