FAQs
When was Metta Fund founded?
Metta Fund was established in 1998 upon the sale of Davies Medical Center to California Pacific Medical Center/Sutter Health.
Where do the foundation’s assets come from?
Metta’s assets came from the sale of Davies Medical Center. When a nonprofit health system or hospital is sold, the proceeds of the sale are placed into a charitable entity so that the nonprofit's charitable assets will continue to serve a charitable purpose long after the sale has taken place.
What is the foundation’s giving history?
Since 1998, Metta Fund has donated over $50 million in grants to nonprofit organizations.
Who determines how much will be awarded in charitable contributions?
Metta Fund is a private foundation and is required by law to distribute at least five percent of its assets annually.
Why is the application process by invitation only?
Metta Fund has a small staff which works closely with community leaders, health experts, other funders, and leading nonprofits to help shape our grantmaking. By not accepting unsolicited proposals, staff is able to focus additional time on those strategic partnerships and the most effective use of our funding.
What types of organizations or programs does the foundation fund?
Metta Fund awards grants to a variety of organizations – from large institutions like the University of California San Francisco to small grassroots organizations. Regardless of the size, Metta’s grantees share many of the same characteristics – they are led by capable, dynamic leaders; they use their resources wisely; they look to innovative practices in their field; and they carefully monitor their progress and evaluate their impact.
What is the foundation’s geographic service area?
Metta Fund focuses its giving to nonprofits in the City and County of San Francisco, the same primary service area that was served by Davies Medical Center.
How does Metta Fund assess San Francisco’s health needs?
Metta’s leadership meets with city health officials on an ongoing basis and actively monitors current health data. The foundation also uses primary and secondary data sources to analyze health issues and needs.
