Foundation History
The Foundation for a Healthy St. Petersburg is an independent, private foundation born from the sale of Bayfront Health St. Petersburg in 2013. The Foundation was created to chart a new path in local philanthropy that’s driven by data, informed by community, and helps create a community in which all residents can lead healthy lives, regardless of race – a path that honors the Foundation’s origins.
This year, we celebrate 10 years of impact in our community.
“The arc of the social determinants of the health universe is long, but it bends toward social justice.”
David Chokshi
Over the past six years, lessons from the community and data from annual activities have informed key shifts in the Foundation’s identity.
Bayfront HERO became the Foundation for a Healthy St. Petersburg.
Foundation transitioned from being a traditional grant maker to a “listen and learn” philanthropic model.
Through the lessons gained by listening, Foundation shifted from programmatic support to emphasize grants related to health equity. This sharpened focus was designed to help overcome inequities defined by class, age, and geography.
The “Equity Atlas” (Equity Profile) was published by UNITE Pinellas in partnership with the Foundation.
A focus on racial equity became the baseline measure to address health inequities. This focus led to the Foundation to inspect systems, practices, and policies that perpetuate racial bias and discrimination.
Racial Equity to Achieve Health Equity to Improve Population Health.
We work to create a community in which all people can lead healthy lives, regardless of race.
We lead, fund, partner, and advocate to advance racially equitable health outcomes by improving the systems, environments, and conditions that shape them.
Our Origins
What existed before the Foundation for a Healthy St. Petersburg? Read more about the origin story.
Learn More