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Economic Crisis in the U.S.

Issue

“[We]...are in the midst of an unprecedented crisis. More people are seeking help, but the cost of providing services is rising while funding from financially strapped state and local governments is dropping.”

— Emmett Carson, President, Silicon Valley Community Foundation

Funding

American foundations have committed almost $174 million to nearly 1,300 organizations in response to the economic downturn

— Foundation Center, “Focus on the Economic Crisis,” April 2, 2009

Challenge

How can we address the most pressing concerns associated with the economic crisis?

Strategy

Create an emergency fund to help community organizations meet immediate needs of families and individuals, such as housing, health care, and transportation

— Otto Bremer Foundation

Case Study

Bremer Emergency Fund

Funded by the Otto Bremer Foundation (MN) in response to the economic crisis, with added support from Bremer Bank
Bremer Foundation has made poverty relief a priority of its 2009 funding

Results

Distributed $4.2 million to 81 community organizations in Minnesota, North Dakota, and Wisconsin
Funds went to families and individuals for emergency needs and to retain housing or jobs

Research Sources

Otto Bremer Foundation

Bremer Emergency Fund Grants

The Bremer Emergency Fund Provides $4.2 Million to Help Community Organizations Meet Emergency Needs
1/20/2009

Otto Bremer Foundation to Focus Twin Cities Funding in 2009 on Poverty Relief
1/2/2009

Foundation Center

Focus on the Economic Crisis

MapShot: Foundations Respond to the Economic Crisis

Philanthropy News Digest

Otto Bremer Foundation Awards $4.2 Million in Emergency Funding
1/22/2009

Silicon Valley Community Foundation to Award $1 Million for Food, Shelter, and Basic Needs
9/11/2008