Otto Bremer Foundation Supports Minnesota Early Childhood Initiative

The Otto Bremer Foundation, St. Paul, has provided support to the Minnesota Early Childhood Initiative, a statewide initiative to ensure that young children have the kind of care and education that leads to success in school and in later life (see MCF's News Archives). Otto Bremer awarded a $100,000 grant to the six Minnesota Initiative Foundations (MIFs), which are directing the initiative, to support the effort in portions of Greater Minnesota where Bremer Banks have a significant presence.

"We are pleased to partner with the Otto Bremer Foundation to help rural communities strengthen resources for young children and families," said Nancy Straw, president of West Central Initiative, a MIF based in Fergus Falls. "Investing in early care and education opportunities will significantly benefit families, businesses and communities for years to come."

Through the Minnesota Early Childhood Initiative, each MIF is developing six early childhood coalitions within its respective region. These local coalitions are creating action plans to ensure that young children have the kind of care and education that leads to success in school and in later life. Over the course of three years, a statewide network of 36 community coalitions will be established to advance the goal of protecting, supporting and advocating for Minnesota's youngest children.

The initiative is funded in part by a $3.2 million grant from The McKnight Foundation. The MIFs are seeking additional funding to match a percentage of McKnight's grant. Other contributors to the statewide campaign include the Sheltering Arms Foundation and the Jay and Rose Phillips Family Foundation.

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