Social assistance for a dignified life

The Vontobel Foundation stands by individuals or families who find themselves in financial distress.

Switzerland has one of the highest per capita incomes in the world. Yet many people feel the pressure of the country’s high cost of living and can fall into financial hardship. Families, people with physical and mental disabilities, or individuals living on a modest pension are particularly at risk. The Vontobel Foundation supports people living in Switzerland who are urgently in need of financial assistance, whether to cover everyday costs or to participate as members of society. A grant is made if it will sustainably improve the individual’s personal and financial situation or bridge a temporarily difficult situation – and if these services cannot be provided by social insurance or social welfare bodies.

Each application is carefully vetted. Applications can be submitted by intermediaries such as social services or aid organizations, but also directly by people in financial distress.

Within five to six weeks of submitting the complete application, you will receive notification of either an approval or a rejection.

There is no entitlement to the Foundation’s services. They remain at the discretion of the Foundation Board. In the case of a rejection, we ask for your understanding that we do not provide justification for our decision.