The Philadelphia Foundation and GlaxoSmithKline Partner to Improve Health for Philly Youth

GlaxoSmithKline headquarters at the Navy Yard

“Your zip code has as much impact on your health as your genetic code,” said Donna Altenpohl, vice president of US public policy at GlaxoSmithKline, during a press conference announcing a $5 million grant for nonprofits working to improve health for children in Philadelphia.

The connection between location and health is a fact of life for many low-income residents and especially those in cities. Bad air quality, limited food access and violent crime all contribute to massive health disparities between Pennsylvania’s 67 counties. A recent study by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation ranked Philadelphia County the least healthiest county in the state while nearby Montgomery and Chester counties were in the top five healthiest.

GlaxoSmithKline, a health care and pharmaceutical giant, is the 24th largest employer in Philadelphia, according to state data, and has long used its philanthropy to tackle health issues. Altenpohl said the company is “refocusing” its philanthropic efforts on more local investment.

“We must go beyond discovering, developing and delivering new medicines and vaccines. We need to work together with key stakeholders to address health challenges now and where they take place in our local community,” she said.

One local stakeholder, The Philadelphia Foundation, will administer the GSK IMPACT Grant over three years and help select the winners. A spokesperson for the foundation explained that nonprofits must apply as a group. The idea is to fund a network of nonprofits with complimentary services, from education to health care service, and hopefully inspire other cities to replicate the model.

“[The grant] is a great example of collective impact, and we need to challenge both philanthropy and the corporate sector to invest locally to improve the quality of life for all,” said Andrew Swinney, president of The Philadelphia Foundation.

There will be an orientation for interested nonprofits on June 24, 2014. Registration and more information is available here.

Further Information 

Get Healthy Philly 2013 annual report

Another GSK initiative: GlaxoSmithKline and United Way Seeking Applicants for $40,000 Impact Awards