Saks Fifth Avenue: A Strong Commitment to Mental Health

A figure that matters for mental health in the United States

Between July 2024 and July 2025, the Saks Fifth Avenue Foundation awarded $1.125 million to organizations working in mental health. This amount reinforces the growing role of corporate philanthropy in prevention, care, and combating stigma.

The subsidies target accessto care, awareness and training, in order to reach the most vulnerable populations.

An impact-oriented grant portfolio

The Foundation has structured its mental health grants around three complementary levers. First, funding early intervention programs for young people and vulnerable populations. Second, supporting hotlines and counseling services capable of responding quickly to situations of distress.

Finally, accelerating educationand awareness through educational content and workshops, particularly in schools. Alongside national partnerships, a local grant program strengthens community initiatives with grants ranging from $10,000 to $30,000, depending on the edition, to amplify very concrete actions on the ground.

Why has private investment become crucial?

The pandemic has exposed the extent of mental health. In this context,private investment plays an accelerating role, complementing public policies. For a brand luxury like Saks, getting involved means mobilizing financial resources, its media platform , and its ecosystem of partners to reach a wider audience.

The annual publication of theImpact Report around World Mental Health Day allows for setting objectives and monitoring results transparently, while announcing new partners and mobilization campaigns.

Initiatives that cover the entire care chain

This grant cycle prioritizes complementary solutions. On the access front , the Foundation supports organizations that reduce financial and geographical barriers, with a focus on underserved populations . On the prevention front, it funds mental health education programs in high schools and youth centers to develop protective factors and identify warning signs earlier.

Finally, regarding support services, it assists providers capable of offering support , whether individual assistance, support groups, or integrated programs involving families and professionals. These priorities are consistently reflected in the Foundation's public documents year after year.

The gamble of local subsidies to reach people quickly and fairly

Because mental health is played out at the community level, the Local Grant Program funds local organizations across the country each year. This model has two advantages. First, it addresses specific needs on a neighborhood-by-neighborhood basis, such as prevention among adolescents , support for communities of color , or support for women .

Furthermore, it creates a multiplier effect by strengthening structures that already have local knowledge and connections with community and school networks. The 2025 calls for projects have once again encouraged associations to apply for local grants, demonstrating the program's sustainability.

Raising awareness through culture and sport to destigmatize

Beyond funding, the Foundation focuses on awareness campaigns capable of reaching a wide audience. In 2025, a campaign combining cultural and sporting talents highlighted the mental health of young people, with personal stories and educational content shared on the brand's platforms.

This type of collaboration broadens the audience, normalizes the demand for help , and serves as a reminder that mental health is an integral part of everyday well-being

The Foundation highlights impact indicators that document the use of funds and improved access for target audiences. Among the aggregated results highlighted in the 2024-2025 communications are the total volume of grants distributed, direct support to local associations, and the reach of educational programs in high schools and youth centers. This culture of reporting enhances the Foundation's credibility and encourages other donors to contribute

What businesses can do right now

The example of the Saks Fifth Avenue Foundation shows four concrete actions that can be taken by private actors of any size:

1. Implement workplace wellness programs that include prevention, support, and confidential access to professionals.

2. Funding partnerships with trusted mental health .

3. Train teams in stress management, burnout prevention and psychological first aid.

4. Communicating responsibly to destigmatize asking for help and sharing useful resources

How can everyone contribute?

On an individual level, three actions make a difference. First, donate to recognized mental health organizations in your area. Second, participate in awareness campaigns and share reliable helpline numbers . Finally, stay informed and share evidence-based resources to support a loved one or recognize warning signs .

What should we remember?

By allocating $1.125 million in grants to mental health over twelve months, the Saks Fifth Avenue Foundation proves that a clear strategy, partnerships , and a culture of reporting can accelerate access to mental health care and prevention at scale.

This exemplary commitment, which combines funding, awareness-raising , and local engagement, contributes to building a more resilient and better-informed society. The challenge now is to amplify these efforts, with the private sector and associations working hand in hand, so that mental health becomes a shared priority in every community.

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