KATHMANDU, March 26: MetLife Foundation has announced the expansion of its Community Impact Grant Program to the Asia Pacific region. Initially introduced in the United States last year, this initiative will now extend its reach to address critical needs affecting individuals with low to moderate incomes across Asia.
According to the Foundation, the invitation-only program will provide programmatic support through grants ranging from USD $50,000 to $100,000, focusing on four key areas namely Hunger relief and nutrition, Physical and Mental well-being, Environmental sustainability and Quality of Life.
MetLife employees from across the Asia network will lead the effort as volunteers, forming the selection committee responsible for evaluating and recommending grants to local organizations. These organizations are addressing emergency needs of individuals with low incomes and communities affected by growing income disparities.
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According to Mike Zarcone, Head of Corporate Affairs for MetLife and Chairman of MetLife Foundation, the program is focused on employee care and community vitality. He said, “The program's success is driven by MetLife employees united in purpose, reflecting our commitment to communities and providing immediate assistance to those in need worldwide."
The Foundation is inviting organizations with demonstrated success in the specified focus areas to submit proposals for the 2024 calendar year. Grants will be awarded to organizations planning to implement programs in one of the six markets where MetLife operates: Australia, Bangladesh, Malaysia, Nepal, South Korea, and Vietnam.
Lyndon Oliver, Regional President for MetLife Asia said that the program is aligned with MetLife's purpose of serving communities where they operate. He expressed enthusiasm for the Community Impact Grant Program, stating that it complements MetLife Foundation's strategic initiatives in the region.
According to the foundation, the RFP for this round of funding in Asia is by invitation only, with all organizations receiving decisions on their proposals by June 2024.