Fred Rogers Productions Receives Grants for Preschool Series

Fred Rogers Productions has secured grants totaling $350,000 from the Richard King Mellon Foundation and Heinz Family Foundation for two of its hit preschool series.

The funding will support on-screen programming and community outreach initiatives. $100,000 from the Heinz Family Foundation is designated for Donkey Hodie, a puppet series spin-off of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, while the Richard King Mellon grant for $250,000 will be split between Donkey Hodie and Alma’s Way.

Donkey Hodie follows the adventures of Donkey Hodie and her pals Purple Panda, Duck Duck and Bob Dog. Created by Adam Rudman and David Rudman, co-founders of Spiffy Pictures, and developed by Ellen Doherty, chief creative officer at Fred Rogers Productions, the social-emotional series empowers children to dream big and overcome obstacles in their own lives.

Created by Sonia Manzano, known as Maria from Sesame Street, Alma’s Way centers on 6-year-old Alma Rivera, a proud, confident Puerto Rican girl who lives in the Bronx with her family. Each episode models self-awareness, responsible decision-making and empathy.

“The Richard King Mellon Foundation and Heinz Family Foundation are longtime supporters of the organization and our mission to provide quality programming that serves the needs of children and helps to foster a love of learning,” said Paul Siefken, president and CEO of Fred Rogers Productions. “We’re grateful to both foundations for their commitment and support that make our work possible.”