Grant strengthens financial health of local organizations

HONOLULU — Kaiser Permanente in Hawaii has awarded $40,000 to Change Machine, a financial coaching company that focuses its services on the most economically disadvantaged individuals and social service organizations. Using this funding, Change Machine will provide 4 grants of $10,000 each to Kaiser Permanente community partners that work with underserved communities across Hawaii. Any Hawaii-based organization that currently provides financial education, financial coaching or counseling, or other financial health services is eligible to apply.

The grants are part of Change Machine’s Financial Health Initiative that aims to build or enhance financial health ecosystems in Hawaii, implementing strategies that allow community organizations to build financial stability sustainably. The grantees will receive financial tools, training, and resources to enhance their programs. They will also be connected with other organizations to build relationships and share ideas around proven financial strategies. The goal is for community organizations to build strong financial health which enables them to achieve their missions. 

“Financial stability is foundational to the mission of our many community partners,” said Greg Christian, Hawaii market president, Kaiser Foundation Health Plan and Hospitals. “We are pleased to work with Change Machine to provide financial training grants to these deserving organizations so that they can continue serving Hawaii’s communities for many years to come.” 

This grant is the latest in a series of contributions from Kaiser Permanente Hawaii to help residents throughout the state receive vital support services in response to the health and economic crises created by the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2021, the health care organization provided over $3.8 million in current or planned grants to organizations serving communities across the state supporting COVID-19 vaccination, addressing homelessness, improving food security, and expanding economic opportunity for Hawaii’s people.

To apply, please submit an application. If you have questions about the grant or application process, please contact Megan Kursik by email at mkursik@change-machine.org. 

About Kaiser Permanente

Kaiser Permanente is committed to helping shape the future of health care. We are recognized as one of America’s leading health care providers and not-for-profit health plans. Founded in 1945, Kaiser Permanente has a mission to provide high-quality, affordable health care services and to improve the health of our members and the communities we serve. We currently serve 12.5 million members in 8 states and the District of Columbia. Care for members and patients is focused on their total health and guided by their personal Permanente Medical Group physicians, specialists, and team of caregivers. Our expert and caring medical teams are empowered and supported by industry-leading technology advances and tools for health promotion, disease prevention, state-of-the-art care delivery, and world-class chronic disease management. Kaiser Permanente is dedicated to care innovations, clinical research, health education, and the support of community health.