The John D. & Katherine A. Johnston Foundation, established in 1928, operates under the administration of Bank of America’s Private Bank, Philanthropic Solutions group, through its Massachusetts office. This private foundation prioritizes charitable giving to organizations serving physically disabled individuals, particularly focusing on children and adults from low-income backgrounds. While the foundation supports initiatives throughout Rhode Island, it expresses a strong preference for organizations serving children in Newport, Rhode Island.
The foundation’s grantmaking reflects the philanthropic intent of Mr. Johnston’s will, which emphasizes the importance of educational and vocational opportunities for children, including grammar school education, business or commercial school instruction, and practical trade or employment training. As a result, grants from the Johnston Foundation prioritize educational, vocational, and job training programs. However, proposals related to healthcare services, recreational activities, and access to religious services are also considered.
Funding is generally provided as one-year grants. The application cycle follows a specific timeline: proposals are due by July 1 each year, and applicants are notified of funding decisions by November 30. Only one proposal per year may be submitted to this foundation. The foundation discourages requests for capital support, sponsorships, endowments, or fundraising events.
Eligible applicants must operate within Rhode Island and serve the physically disabled, especially from low-income populations. Online applications are required and must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on the deadline date. The application process does not accept email, mail, or hand-delivered proposals, nor does it allow Letters of Inquiry or Intent. Applications must align closely with the foundation’s mission and geographic focus to be considered.
To support applicants, Bank of America provides online resources including an Online Application Help PDF and foundation-specific detail pages on its grantmaking website. Technical support is available during business hours, but not on weekends or holidays. Post-award reporting is mandatory within one year of receiving funds. Failure to comply may render applicants ineligible for future funding.
For inquiries, applicants can contact the Massachusetts office of Bank of America via email at ma.grantmaking@bofa.com or by phone at 866-778-6859. It is advised to reference the foundation’s name in all communications for efficient assistance.
