Giving Compass' Take:

• This report from Grantmakers in Health discusses how philanthropy can and should address neighborhood conditions that shape health.

• The report recommends that public health advocates take the time to understand the relationship between health outcomes and environmental, social, and economic conditions.

• To learn about the relationship between health, housing, and civil rights, click here.

The health of communities is profoundly shaped by social, economic, and environmental factors such as housing, employment, and education ... Living in areas with few grocery stores, spaces for physical activity, or quality jobs and schools contributes significantly to negative health outcomes like obesity and lower life expectancy (Robert Wood Johnson Foundation). Likewise, poor housing is associated with higher rates of chronic disease, behavioral health problems, and a lack of preventive care (Fukuzawa and Karnas 2015). Neighborhood conditions also affect health in less obvious ways. Residential segregation, gentrification and displacement, transportation, violence, environmental hazards, and even social cohesion are all linked to multiple health outcomes.

A growing number of foundations are addressing these issues as well as other conditions that influence the health of communities. Guiding these efforts is a framework that defines health more broadly and moves beyond a traditional focus on access to clinical care. Funders are increasingly moving upstream and supporting approaches characterized by experimentation, collaboration with partners outside the health sector, and a willingness to confront the root causes of health inequities.

This scan of the field explores how grantmakers are addressing neighborhood factors that shape health. The scan highlights philanthropic activities across key domains including housing, community development, the built environment, and place-based initiatives. In addition to tracking the types of investments funders are making, the scan analyzes how funders are defining these investments and identifies opportunities and gaps for future activities. To help health philanthropy broaden its impact, the report shares promising practices, lessons learned, and recommendations for the field.

Read the full PDF about neighborhood conditions that shape health at Grantmakers In Health.