The Minnesota Council on Foundations (MCF) in partnership with the Saint Paul & Minnesota Foundation (the Foundation) has awarded $2 million in funds from the Minnesota Disaster Recovery Fund (MDRF) for coronavirus to a first round of grantees.

Based on recommendations by the MDRF advisory committee, 11 organizations will receive initial fund disbursements to support communities impacted by the coronavirus pandemic. Funds awarded will provide assistance to nonprofits statewide that provide support for homeless and vulnerable populations, small businesses, childcare providers, youth, LGBTQ individuals, families and artists.

Funds were awarded to:

• Coalition of Asian American Leaders ($200,000)
• CommunityGiving ($150,000)
• Heading Home MN Funders Collaborative ($350,000)
• Initiative Foundation ($50,000)
• Northland Foundation ($600,000)
• Northwest Minnesota Foundation ($50,000)
• Pfund ($100,000)
• Southwest Initiative Foundation ($50,000)
• Springboard for the Arts ($50,000)
• Think Small ($200,000)
• Youthprise ($200,000)

Many of these community organizations focus on serving small businesses and historically marginalized communities, such as individuals who identify as people of color, LGBTQ, rural, and/or disabled.

Additional support will continue to replenish the Minnesota Disaster Recovery Fund for coronavirus as foundations, businesses and individuals join this effort. To date, the fund is nearing $6 million.