Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA, Kids with Food Allergies)

The Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America (AAFA) is the oldest and leading patient organization globally dedicated to people with asthma and allergies. Founded in 1953, its core mission is to save lives and improve the quality of life for individuals affected by asthma and allergic diseases through comprehensive support, advocacy, education, and research. The organization's headquarters are located in Arlington, Virginia.

AAFA provides a wide array of services, including educational programs and resources for patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals, encompassing digital tools, online courses, and newsletters. The foundation engages in advocacy efforts, addressing critical policy issues such as access to healthcare and medications, the impact of climate change on health, food allergies, and promoting healthy environments. Additionally, AAFA conducts and promotes research to advance the understanding and treatment of asthma and allergic diseases, publishing reports like the annual Allergy Capitals and Asthma Capitals. It also offers community support through online patient communities, regional chapters, and support groups, and operates a Clinical Trials Resource Center and a toll-free information line.

Kenneth Mendez serves as the CEO and President of AAFA, a position he has held since early 2018, while Ritesh Patel was elected Board Chair in March 2023. The organization is currently implementing a 2022-2025 strategic plan focused on health equity, community-based interventions, expanding patient communities, addressing climate and environmental factors, enhancing public health support, and improving health literacy. AAFA regularly releases reports, such as the 2026 Allergy Capitals® report, which highlights the effects of climate change on pollen seasons, and is recognized as the only asthma and allergy patient advocacy group certified by the National Health Council.