General Grants for Children of Targeted Activists

Program Status: Active

Geographic Scope: United States

Background: The RFC's core granting program supporting children and young adults of parents and guardians targeted for their activism and resistance work. Established in 1990, this is the primary grant vehicle through which the organization supports beneficiary families.

Focus Areas:

• Educational programs and resources
• Mental health support and therapy
• Art and creative expression
• Recreational activities and sports
• Computer/technology access
• Academic enrichment
• Youth development

Eligibility:

• Children (and young adults up to age 24) whose parents or guardians have been targeted for their activism
• Young activists (youth ages 18-24) who have themselves faced harassment, targeting, or police violence for their own organizing efforts
• Children in families that have experienced:
  • Police harassment, violence, or arrest
  • Loss of employment or income due to activism
  • Community ostracism or harassment
  • ICE targeting and immigration-related harassment
  • Threat of or actual family separation
  • Severe trauma from state violence

Funding Categories:

• Individual child/youth grants
• Group grants for multiple children in a family
• Renewal grants for continuing beneficiaries
• Carry-It-Forward awards for long-term beneficiaries aging out
• Emergency grocery gift cards for families in economic crisis

Award History:

• Over $8 million awarded since 1990
• 78 grants totaling $200,000+ in fall 2022 cycle
• Over 1,000 children served
• 80+ applications received in fall 2022

Granting Cycles: Two major cycles per year (spring and fall)

Contact Information:

• Rosenberg Fund for Children
• 116 Pleasant Street, Suite 335
• Easthampton, MA 01027
• Phone: (413) 529-0063
• Email: info@rfc.org

Application Process

Overview: The RFC works with families on an individualized basis, recognizing that no single application process works for everyone. The organization attempts to make applications as user-friendly as possible while gathering necessary information for funding decisions.

Key Application Features:

• Flexible application accommodations available
• Phone/email interviews offered for applicants who cannot complete written applications
• Case-by-case approach for families with unique circumstances
• Accessible format for families with varying literacy levels or trauma

Application Support:

• RFC Granting Coordinator available to help families through the process
• Permission to discuss applications by phone if written format is difficult
• Outreach to potential new applicants from RFC staff
• Clear explanation of what information the RFC needs to make funding decisions

Board Review: All applications are presented to the RFC Board for review and decision-making

Processing:

• Grants are awarded following Board approval
• Payment made directly to service providers (schools, therapists, activity providers, etc.)
• RFC coordinates with providers to ensure funds are used as intended

Renewal Process: Existing beneficiaries can apply for renewed support in subsequent granting cycles