The Mary Kay Ash Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Mary Kay Inc., announced more than $2.5 million in cancer research and domestic violence shelter grants. Grants awarded in 2026 included:
- $1,020,000 – Annual domestic violence shelter grants, 51 in total, offered unrestricted funds to provide critical support and life-saving services, like mental health and post-trauma counseling, childcare, financial assistance and emergency and transitional housing.
- $100,000 – Local domestic violence shelter grants to four North Texas domestic violence shelters addressed specific and immediate community needs, providing critical resources for women fleeing a domestic violence situation.
- $75,000 – An expanded partnership with The National Domestic Violence Hotline and loveisrespect created a digital and social marketing campaign to educate teens and young adults about healthy relationships and how to recognize the warning signs of an abusive relationship.
- $75,000 – The Foundation has served as Presenting Sponsor of The Conference on Crimes Against Women, an annual conference in Dallas, Texas dedicated to combating all forms of crimes against women.
- $1,000,000 – Ten esteemed cancer researchers from the nation’s leading accredited universities received individual grants of $100,000 to support groundbreaking studies focused on cancers primarily affecting women.
- $134,000 – As part of a five-year, $500,000 commitment to the Texas Cancer Interception Institute, the Foundation is supporting a first-of-its-kind program designed for early detection through biomarker technology.
- $75,000 – The Foundation has partnered with CancerCare for more than 25 years to provide free, professional support services for those facing a cancer diagnosis.
- $25,000 – Cancer Support Community North Texas provides free programs and support services for those undergoing cancer treatment, including counseling, yoga and health and wellness classes.
“These grants are an investment in hope and brighter futures for women facing some of life’s most difficult challenges,” said Michael Lunceford, President of the Mary Kay Ash Foundation Board of Directors. “For 30 years, the Foundation has turned hope into action, investing more than $100 million in exceptional researchers and organizations working to change lives. We are proud to support the medical breakthroughs and vital services that are helping women live healthier, safer lives and creating lasting impact for generations to come.”
This year’s grants completed a significant milestone for the company as it celebrates the Foundation’s 30th anniversary and more than $100 million donated.
