How does the Stephen Lewis Foundation decide what projects to fund?

The SLF works directly at the grassroots level and supports community-led organizations who are championing health and human rights for communities affected by the HIV epidemic. The SLF does not fund programs through governments.

All SLF partner organizations are assessed and monitored by the SLF’s team of field officers who collaborate with our partners to review the governance and financial stability of the organizations.

The SLF develops strong partnerships with these organizations, which are built on trust. The organizations regularly share financial and narrative reports and audits and are in regular communication with the SLF about their work and its impact.

What percentage of donations goes to admin costs?

90 per cent of funds donated to the Grandmothers to Grandmothers Campaign go directly to support the work of community-led organizations.  On average over the last three years, 75% of all funds raised by the SLF go to support the work of community-led organizations.

Southern Alberta Liaison for the Stephen Lewis Foundation
The Grandmothers to Grandmothers campaign of the Stephen Lewis Foundation has many groups spread across Canada and 13 Regional Liaison representatives who keep up communication from the Toronto office with smaller groups in their area including the Calgary group Ujamaa and the Edmonton group GRAN who spread the word in Alberta.  I have just taken over this role from Judy Howe who filled it for many years.  The Calgary rep sends info out to groups in Red Deer, Canmore, Calgary, Lethbridge and Medicine Hat.  Here are the most recent happenings:

1. There was disappointment that, despite calls and letters, there wasn’t an increase to the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria from Canada as the groups we are assisting in Africa need sustained support to protect hard won progress.  The reports are that many organizations feel they are back to the basics(food and income).  However, they have learned over the years the power of solidarity and how they can work together to help their communities.  Interestingly, volunteers with valuable experience and even some equipment (chairs, children’s play sets, etc.) have come from the now defunct USAID agencies.  The mood is: We are activists; we won’t despair!  
2. Plans are afoot for the 20th Anniversary of the Stephen Lewis Foundation; celebrating its beginning in 2006. It will be held in Ottawa, September 22-24 2026 and all members are invited to participate.