It was established to assist those in need in the Canberra community whose needs are not covered by government sources.

As of 2020, the main areas for which the Snow Foundation provides services are social welfare (including homelessness, domestic violence), lack of education/employment including future job opportunities, and health for indigenous Australians as well as aged care.

Snow, the founders’ grandfather, came to Canberra to establish the Capital's first general store.

The Foundation is the creation of brothers Terry and George Snow who set it up in 1991 with the aim of helping those individuals and organisations that freely gave their time to help the less fortunate live fulfilling lives.

[2] Starting with an initial contribution of $1 million, the Foundation has provided financial help to a diverse range of organisations and individuals throughout Canberra and the surrounding region.