Shape foundation Why Food? When someone doesn’t have dependable access to food, particularly nutritionally rich food, it can have many negative short- and long-term effects on a person’s physical health and mental well-being. The COVID-19 pandemic has shed light on an already staggering food insecurity problem. Even before the pandemic began, Los Angeles County was home to 2 million food insecure individuals, making it the most food insecure county in the entire country. It is now estimated that 1 in 4 individuals in Los Angeles County have struggled to afford food during the pandemic, up from 1 in 5 before March of 2020. PHOTO: SERENA CREATIVE Grantmaking Strategy Because of the continuing, dire need for food assistance, the Butterfly Equity Foundation’s primary focus is on funding organizations that provide healthy hunger relief in our hometown community of Los Angeles. We also support nonprofits that promote affordable, healthy food retail in neighborhoods with low access. The Foundation is not accepting unsolicited proposals at this time. What's Next? We are currently working on a strategic plan that will be activated in 2021. Funding will continue to be 100% devoted to organizations promoting food justice. The Butterfly team is deeply passionate about making a positive community impact through food. We believe our food-systems knowledge and networks will enhance the value of our grantmaking. This means we can equip our nonprofit partners with more resources to combat the inequities in our food system and bring greater access to healthy, nourishing food for all. photos by: Serena Creative and The Dream Center Partner With Us