Climate Resilience Plans

The William Penn Foundation, a private philanthropic organization based in Philadelphia, is advancing a climate resilience initiative under its Environment and Public Space program. This initiative specifically aims to support the development and implementation of community-based climate resilience plans across the Greater Philadelphia region. By the year 2035, the foundation seeks to assist in the creation and activation of at least fifteen such plans, ensuring that communities most vulnerable to climate change are equipped with strategies for adaptation and recovery. Philadelphia and its surrounding areas are expected to face significant climate impacts over the coming decades. Projections indicate an increase in mean annual temperatures by up to five degrees Fahrenheit by 2050, along with a surge in days exceeding 100 degrees annually. These heat extremes are exacerbated in urban neighborhoods that have historically lacked green infrastructure, often areas that are predominantly low-income and communities of color. The urban heat island effect in such neighborhoods results in temperatures up to 22 degrees higher than those in more affluent or suburban regions. In addition to heat, flooding presents a growing threat. Climate models suggest a 12 percent increase in annual precipitation by 2050 and a 97 percent likelihood of at least one flood exceeding four feet. Industrial zones situated near major rivers further increase the risk of toxic floodwaters due to the prevalence of brownfields and chemical storage tanks. This disproportionately affects disinvested neighborhoods already burdened with environmental hazards, where over 100 brownfields are located. These risks also translate into public health issues, with elevated asthma rates particularly among Black children, who are hospitalized at rates five times higher than their white peers in Philadelphia. The foundation emphasizes that community-led planning is critical for successful resilience strategies. It invites proposals from organizations that can facilitate and guide communities in identifying vulnerabilities, developing adaptive responses, and planning for post-climate event recovery. The focus is particularly on communities experiencing the highest impacts from climate change. Organizations proposing creative, community-centered approaches to resilience planning are encouraged to submit ideas for consideration. The grant opportunity does not specify an open or close date, nor does it outline precise funding ceilings, floors, or total program funding. It is also not indicated whether there are rolling deadlines, pre-application requirements, or a structured application form. Applicants are encouraged to reach out to Alison Jones, Program Officer for Environment and Public Space, for more information. Her contact details are provided: grants@williampennfoundation.org or (215) 988-1830. All proposals should align with the foundation’s objective of strengthening environmental equity and climate preparedness. While details about selection criteria and award timing are not provided, the foundation clearly values locally informed, participatory processes that incorporate the lived experiences of residents in under-resourced communities. Interested applicants should consider engaging with the foundation early to discuss alignment and readiness for potential funding under this initiative.