AstraZeneca has proudly awarded $3.4 million to nonprofit organizations in the US through its Accelerate Change Together (ACT) on Health Equityinitiative. This effort aims to support programming that prioritizes the social, cultural and linguistic needs of communities that have experienced barriers to care and opportunity.

During its fifth year, AstraZeneca’s ACT on Health Equity initiative will fund 47 nonprofit programs whose missions support the goal of advancing health equity and focus on healthcare access, nutrition, lung health, and eliminating barriers that lead to a higher incidence of preventable conditions.

Mohit Manrao, SVP, Head of US Oncology and President, AstraZeneca Foundation, said: “At AstraZeneca, we believe advancing health equity is fundamental to building a healthier society. Through our US ACT on Health Equity initiative, we’re working to break down barriers to care. The Community Solutions Challenge and National Strategic Collaborations grant programs are powerful examples of this commitment in action, providing funding to organizations making a meaningful difference in their local communities. In partnership with our awardees, we’re helping to create a future where every community has the chance to thrive.”

The 2025 Community Solutions Challenge has awarded grants to 37 nonprofit organizations nationwide, providing each with $30,000 in funding for a total of $1.11 million. These grants will support regional and community-based programs that address topics that include food insecurity, comprehensive nutritional education, access to care and lung health for those impacted by asthma, COPD and lung cancer.

The 2025 National Strategic Collaborations has awarded a total of $2.3 million to 10 organizations to support initiatives where AstraZeneca has expertise including lung disease, lung and breast cancer and cardiology. Awarded programs are actively working to address and eliminate barriers that can lead to higher incidence of preventable conditions or challenges that keep underserved populations from receiving standard care and support.

Karen Santilli, CEO of Greater Providence YMCA and 2025 Community Solutions Challenge recipient, said: “For too many adults living with chronic conditions, mobility limitations, or disabilities, traditional fitness spaces are not designed with them in mind, creating real barriers to health and well-being. Our Adaptive Fitness Program exists to close that gap by offering inclusive programs, specialized equipment, and trained staff who understand how to support every individual safely and effectively. From adaptive swim and Parkinson’s-specific boxing to cancer survivorship and functional electrical stimulation cycling, we are meeting people where they are and helping them build confidence, strength, and connection. This work is about more than exercise. It is about dignity, access, and ensuring everyone has the opportunity to live a healthier life.”