History
The Foundation for Chemistry Research & Initiatives was founded in 1995 as the Research Foundation for Health and Environmental Effects (RFHEE). Initially, RFHEE’s efforts focused on chemistry and products based on the chlorine molecule by supporting research that contributed to science policy decisions, and funding to partnerships to increase access to safe drinking water in underserved communities and disaster areas. For example, RFHEE partnered with the West Africa Water Initiative on a five year Sustainable Water Partnership.
Over time, the focus of the Foundation expanded to three main areas: 1) support science policy-related research on other chemistries; 2) develop training programs for the safe use and application of products; and, 3) respond to social challenges through the benefits of chemistry. In 2015, RFHEE changed its name to the Foundation for Chemistry Research and Initiatives to reflect this broader scope.
Past Foundation projects have included work with the United Nations Environment Programme, the U.S. Department of Labor, West Africa Water Initiative, American Red Cross, Salvadoran Red Cross, and others.