Announcing $1 Million in Grants to Help Minnesota Families with Food and Direct Assistance

“In critical times like this, our community’s strength shines through the ways we support one another. As many of our neighbors face financial challenges, every act of generosity—whether through donations, volunteering, or helping spread the word—makes a real difference. Your support ensures families have essential resources and reminds them they are not alone.” – Ruby Azurdia-Lee, President and CEO, Comunidades Latinas Unidas En Phục vụ (CLUES)

“It is so hard to be present right now. The news cycle keeps us in a state of anxiety, and we have seen how quickly that once stable systems can be decimated overnight. In this moment, it is critical that we show up for each other. Instead of feeling helpless because of the shaky ground around us, find a nonprofit that aligns with your values and volunteer, donate funds, host a food drive…get your hands in the dirt and create something beautiful to share with your neighbors and your community. Giving feels like an act of resistance. Let’s choose to live in that space.” – Mary Niedermeyer, CEO, Communities Advancing Prosperity for Immigrants

“Hallie Q. Brown exists to improve quality of life, to increase longevity, and to make our community immortal through historical archiving. We believe that in times like these we need community more than ever. We provide holistic lifespan support to ensure that our neighbors can thrive. Investment from McKnight positions local organizations to be flexible to meet changing demands while continuing to stay mission driven. HQB and other social service organizations like ours provide excellent services while also being committed to community development. We are grateful for aligned funding partners that scale the work in ways we are unable to alone.” – Benny Roberts, Executive Director, Hallie Q. Brown Community Center

“We are fortunate to have friends who remember that deep winter brings sparks of light but also pain to many who cannot both afford to put protein on the table and pay their utility bill. Unasked, McKnight responded to the need. This winter, with the cost of basic groceries so high, no one should think their donation—however much—will not make a difference. It will, and the need isn’t going away soon. Direct-serving nonprofits are running lean. Unrestricted funding allows them to run even leaner and serve those most in need.” – Holly A. Raab, Development Director, Hiệp hội cư dân Trái đất nhỏ

“For over 117 years, Merrick Community Services has appreciated the generosity of our donors, volunteers, and funders, whose vital support allows us to provide wrap-around, basic, and emergency/crisis services and interventions to those we are privileged to serve on the East Side of Saint Paul and beyond. The year-end holidays are a great time for individuals to support our Employment and Career Services, Family and Community Services, Food Shelf, Meals on Wheels Programs, and also our Annual Holiday Share Toy Distribution. To get information on how to donate or volunteer, please go to merrickcs.org.” – Daniel A. Rodriguez, Executive Director, Dịch vụ cộng đồng Merrick

People Serving People supports families experiencing housing instability and advocates for systems change to create a community where no family has to experience homelessness. Since 1982 we have been providing families with essential shelter and meals, facilitating housing stabilization, and nurturing early childhood education.

“In heightened moments of conflict and uncertainty, it is our responsibility to turn to one another. As the holidays approach, the disparities we see negatively impacting our communities are ever present and increasing. For those of us committed to a better future, rapid action is required. We thank partners like the McKnight Foundation who recognize the urgency of the moment and move with and in support of community.” – Signe V. Harriday, Artistic Producing Director, Cộng đồng Hoa Kỳ

“In times like these, the strength of our community is measured by how we show up for one another. Every act of giving—whether it’s a warm meal, a donated coat, a financial contribution, or simply checking in on a neighbor—helps someone feel seen, supported, and valued. When we each offer what we can, we remind our neighbors that they are not alone and that this nation will always rise together.” – Scott Redd, President & Chief Executive Officer, Trung tâm cộng đồng Sabathani

“This special grant round reflects the power of partnership and responsiveness in times of need. By working with the McKnight Foundation, we can quickly channel resources to address urgent challenges—whether it’s food insecurity, heating assistance or other essentials—so families and communities feel supported right now. It’s about neighbors helping neighbors, and we’re honored to play a role in that.” – Amy Trombley, Vice President for Community, Quỹ sáng kiến

“McKnight’s Good Neighbor Grantmaking support is timely and deeply appreciated. Right now, many of our neighbors are facing food insecurity and too many are struggling to put meals on the table. This generous funding will support hope and action in our rural northeastern Minnesota communities.” – Tony Sertich, President and CEO, Quỹ Northland

“Many of our neighbors are facing real hardships right now. Together, we’re working to respond quickly and get help where it’s needed most for food and heating. In moments like this, Northwest Minnesota shows what it does best—taking care of one another. We invite everyone to join us in helping our neighbors stay safe, warm, and supported this season.” – Karen White, President, Tổ chức Tây Bắc Minnesota

“Giving flows from gratitude, and this holiday season we are grateful for the neighbors who band together in support when times are hard. This generous gift from McKnight helps us fuel the work of those who serve their neighbors, activating the power of our community partners to keep food shelves stocked, energy bills paid, and local dollars flowing through our local businesses.” – Benya Kraus, President and CEO, Quỹ Sáng kiến Nam Minnesota

“Please consider supporting your neighbors in this moment by giving to your local food shelf, crisis relief fund, community foundation, and the many nonprofits who provide critical services and assistance for families. The costs to provide access to food, shelter, fuel, transportation, childcare, and funding for emergencies and unplanned expenses continues to grow, so these organizations need our support now more than ever. We are grateful for McKnight Foundation’s generosity and investment in our region’s communities and families, and for sharing our vision of a region where all people can thrive.” – Scott Marquardt, Quỹ Sáng kiến Tây Nam

“West Central Initiative is deeply grateful for this grant, which will make a meaningful difference for those most in need in west central Minnesota. When each of us gives what we can—whether time, resources, or compassion—we help ensure every neighbor’s basic needs are met. Every gift, no matter its size, strengthens the bonds that keep us resilient, caring, and hopeful.” – Anna Wasescha, President, Sáng kiến Tây Trung Bộ