Programs
NCJW CARES
NCJW MN is committed to providing Action, Resources, and Equity in Schools. To support this effort, we allocate rapid response funds* to support homeless and highly mobile youth and families. Additionally, we offer standalone programs to support the quality of life for women, children and families.
Rapid Response Fund
In 2018, the need for financial support to families at risk of losing housing was identified* and the Rapid Response Fund was launched. Developed through a trusting partnership with Minneapolis and St Paul Public Schools, the Rapid Response Fund provides stability for families experiencing homelessness or high mobility so that students are able to stay in school.
NCJW’s ability to quickly bridge the gap when unexpected expenses arise (ex: car repairs, rent deposits, a night in a hotel), makes the difference for families and students! Five years ago, close to $4000 was distributed to 13 families to address immediate needs. During the 2023-2024 school year, we distributed $27,365 in financial support for housing and basic needs to 45 families!
Your support of the Rapid Response Fund contributes to student success! Contribute to the fund here. (Rapid response funding requests are referred to NCJW directly through our MPS liaison; we do not accept direct funding requests.)
*Families with children under 18 account for 48% of people experiencing homelessness in Minnesota. Emergency rental assistance that was provided through COVID relief programs, is no longer available. Data shows that students experiencing homelessness achieve and graduate at lower levels, and encounter more exclusionary discipline than their peers. While staying in the same school in the face of housing instability makes a positive difference, 20% are unable to do so.
Menstrual Equity
NCJW MN is committed to menstrual equity for all. Through a range of community collaborations we are able to donate and distribute menstrual products to meet the needs of our surrounding community. Additionally, our advocates successfully worked with our legislative partners to pass legislation that mandates and secures state funding for the provision of pads and tampons to Minnesota students in grades 4-12. We remain committed to ensuring that menstruating students don’t miss school due to lack of access to the products they need.