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In the Vulnerable Populations Portfolio, we look at what makes us healthy—or unhealthy—from a perspective that includes factors outside of the health care system. We create new opportunities for better health by investing in health where it starts—in our homes, schools and jobs. The social innovations we support often work in the domains of education, housing or corrections, but always address health needs of people who are vulnerable. The factors that lead to poor health—such as how and where we live, learn, work and play—are often referred to as the social determinants of health, and are documented by a significant body of research.

We fund a diverse group of innovative programs that address long-standing health issues within their broader social context through sensible, sustainable solutions that have potential for widespread replication and national impact.

We are looking for ideas that have the potential to represent fundamental breakthroughs in the circumstances that affect vulnerable people. These models take on the big messy challenges that are too often seen as unsolvable—things like the loneliness of nursing homes or the heartbreak and fear of street violence. And while they always mark their successes in the form of better health, they almost always come from outside of the health care system.

For more information on the issues RWJF seeks to address, download our complete overview.