NEW YORK — The Dunkin’ Joy in Childhood Foundation is starting 2026 by reflecting on a massive year of giving in the Big Apple. On Thursday, January 22, 2026, the charitable arm of the coffee giant announced it awarded more than $1.6 million in grants to support children battling hunger and illness across the New York metro region.
This funding was distributed among 68 nonprofit organizations throughout 2025, with many of the “Signature Program” grants—such as those for hospital facility dogs and teen proms—specifically designed to extend their impact well into 2026.
Where the Money Went
The foundation’s strategy focuses on two critical pillars: alleviating food insecurity and bringing “joy” to pediatric patients. Key beneficiaries in the Metro NY area include:
- Sunrise Day Camps Association: Received funding to provide free summer camp experiences for over 1,000 children with cancer and their siblings in Long Island and Pearl River.
- The Boomer Esiason Foundation: Granted funds to support scholarships for adolescents living with cystic fibrosis (CF) and their family members, helping them pursue higher education despite medical costs.
- St. Joseph’s Health: Utilized a “Joyful Spaces” grant to unveil new playful, non-clinical rooms for pediatric patients. They also used a “Dogs for Joy” grant to acquire a full-time facility dog from Canine Companions to comfort hospitalized children.
- Hunger Relief: Major grants were awarded to Food Bank For New York City, Feeding Westchester, Fulfill (Monmouth & Ocean Counties), and Table to Table to address rising food insecurity. Additionally, 23,310 meals were donated specifically through Long Island Cares.
Franchisees Fuel the Giving
Tara Carson, Dunkin’ Field Marketing Director for the region, highlighted that these grants are often driven by local franchisee committees who identify the specific needs of their neighborhoods.
“From increased demand at food banks to the need for moments of normalcy for children who are hospitalized, these organizations are stepping up in meaningful ways… We’re proud to support these organizations as they continue to show up for families across the area.”
What’s New
From Community Joy to Super Bowl Laughs While the Joy in Childhood Foundation continues its vital work on the ground, Dunkin’ is also preparing to entertain millions on the world’s biggest stage. The brand recently unveiled its star-studded Super Bowl LX campaign, featuring Ben Affleck and a cast of 90s icons. For a look at the “lost pilot” that imagines the origin of Dunkin’s iced coffee—and how you can score a free cup—read our coverage of the Dunkin’ Super Bowl LX “Good Will Dunkin'” Commercial.
Why It Matters
While corporate philanthropy is common, Dunkin’s focus on “joy”—through camps, proms, and therapy dogs—addresses the emotional toll of childhood illness, distinct from purely medical or financial support. By combining this with fundamental hunger relief, the Foundation is targeting both the survival and the spirit of at-risk children in one of the country’s most expensive regions. To stay updated on corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives and nonprofit news, or to share your own organization’s impact, visit Source86.
