Funding Amount

Varies

Deadline

Rolling / Open

Grant Type

foundation

Overview

REF Essential Needs Fund

Overview: A rapid-response fund established to support Rockford Public Schools students and families facing unmet basic needs through requests submitted by RPS staff members.

Mission: Partner with Rockford Public Schools to address immediate, pressing issues facing children and families in the community when school staff identify needs.

Geographic Scope: Rockford Public Schools, Michigan

Who Can Request:

  • Rockford Public Schools staff members only

  • Requests are made on behalf of students/families they serve
  • Eligible Uses (Real-Life Examples):

  • Clothing for employment (e.g., dress slacks for a job)

  • Personal care items (razors, deodorant, feminine products)

  • Transportation assistance (vehicle repairs/tires)

  • Other unmet basic needs
  • Process Features:

  • Quick response time: RPS representative responds within 24 hours

  • Designed to address immediate situations

  • School staff no longer need to use personal funds
  • Contact:

  • Primary Contact: Larinda Fase at lfase@rockfordschools.org

  • Phone: (616) 863-6317

  • Address: PO Box 777, Rockford, Michigan 49341

  • Website: rockfordedfoundation.org
  • How to Apply

    Requesting Funds from Essential Needs Fund

    Eligible Applicants: RPS (Rockford Public Schools) staff members only

    Application Process:
    1. RPS staff submit essential needs requests online (link provided on Essential Needs Fund page)
    2. Submit request form for RPS students/families
    3. Foundation representative responds within 24 hours

    Timeline: Rapid response - 24-hour turnaround

    For Questions: Contact Larinda Fase at lfase@rockfordschools.org

    Focus Areas & Funding Uses

    Fields of Work

    k-12-schoolshardshiphuman-services

    Categories

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