The W.K. Kellogg Foundation was established in 1930 by breakfast cereal innovator and entrepreneur W.K. Kellogg, who defined its purpose as “…administering funds for the promotion of the welfare, comfort, health, education, feeding, clothing, sheltering and safeguarding of children and youth, directly or indirectly, without regard to sex, race, creed or nationality.…” To guide current and future trustees and staff, he said, “Use the money as you please so long as it promotes the health, happiness and well-being of children.”
The foundation receives its income primarily from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation Trust, a charitable trust set up by Mr. Kellogg in 1930 with his earnings from his cereal company. Today, in addition to its diversified portfolio, the WKKF Trust owns substantial equity in the two companies, Kellanova and WK Kellogg Co which are spin-offs from the original Kellogg Company. Kellanova, WK Kellogg Co and the W.K. Kellogg Foundation are separate, independent organizations. The foundation is governed by its own independent board of trustees and is not managed or directed by either company.
Over the years, the Kellogg Foundation’s programming has continued to evolve, striving to remain innovative and responsive to the ever-changing needs of society. Today, the organization ranks among the world’s largest private foundations, awarding grants in the United States, Mexico and Haiti.
