Community Sharing Fund
Community Sharing Fund supports individuals and families facing financial crises, funding emergency housing, utilities and other essential expenses to resolve short-term setbacks in three Minnesota counties.
Funder: Saint Paul and Minnesota Foundation
Due Dates: Not specified
Funding Amounts: $100–$1,000 per grant, up to $1,500 for housing assistance
Summary: Emergency assistance for individuals and families facing short-term financial crises when other services or funds are unavailable.
Key Information: Individuals cannot apply directly; caseworkers submit requests through referring organizations on clients’ behalf.
Description
The Community Sharing Fund is an emergency assistance program of the Saint Paul and Minnesota Foundation. Working with more than 100 community organizations, it helps individuals and families address verifiable, short-term financial setbacks in Dakota, Ramsey and Washington counties, Minnesota. Supported needs include rent, damage deposits, utilities, medical expenses, childcare, transportation and other critical health and human services expenses.
The fund is a resource of last resort for emergencies caused by unforeseen events. Assistance must resolve a problem that is not expected to recur in the near future. Its 2025–2027 strategic goals are to respond to emerging community needs, address systemic issues alongside immediate needs, support community partners’ sustainability and ensure the fund’s financial future.
