Bengaluru, 12 December – United Way Bengaluru has received a grant of INR 20 million from Visa Foundation, to enhance and expand its environmental initiatives, aiming to create lasting positive change in the garden city of Bengaluru.

United Way Bengaluru has been actively working on various environmental initiatives in and around the city, aimed at creating a more sustainable future for the city. With support from the Visa Foundation, these efforts will be scaled up significantly. This collaboration will focus on planting an estimated 10,000 native tree species to enhance green cover, helping to restore ponds for rainwater conservation and increasing the groundwater table through 117 percolation wells across Bengaluru.

The grant is a part of the Visa Foundation Gives program, a multi-year initiative launched in 2022 dedicated to addressing local issues in communities where Visa employees live and work. This initiative in India was chosen by employees of Visa in Bengaluru through a survey. In addition to the grant, the program will also enable them to volunteer with United Way Bengaluru to further advance its mission and amplify their own impact as volunteers in their communities.

“We are excited to partner with Visa Foundation, whose support will strengthen and accelerate our initiatives to address environmental challenges” said Rajesh Krishnan, CEO of United Way Bengaluru. “Together, with a shared commitment to sustainability, we aim to address Bengaluru’s critical environmental issues and build a stronger, more resilient city for the future.

“Visa Foundation has been partnering with local organizations in India to help uplift everyone, everywhere,” said Graham Macmillan, President, Visa Foundation. “With this grant to United Way Bengaluru, we are delighted to continue investing in programs that are close to our colleagues’ hearts and aligned with the country’s Sustainable Development Goals, helping us build an inclusive, sustainable future for all.”