Paula Turelli and Ellen Marwede joined us to give us an update on the Mothers Trust Foundation. Paula is the Executive Director and Ellen is the Director of Development. Mothers Trust Foundation (MTF) was founded by Barbara Monsor to create connections between willing donors and social workers who see first hand the needs of many families and children, She began with a small grant in 1998 and since then has assisted more than 33,000 children and their families with over $2.6 million in grants. MTF receives requests for funding for items like school uniforms, clothing, new underwear and shoes; other necessities like car seats, pack n play cribs, home safety items and other baby gear. There have also been requests for medical needs like exams for eyeglasses, dental, and transportation fees for appointments. Enrichment opportunities like learning a musical instrument, playing sports and attending camp are also areas MTF has provided aid. Of course, education related expenses like Lake County Technology Campus kit fees, high school credit recovery courses and graduation expenses. These services are for Lake County residents only, from ages birth to 21. Retired social workers are members of the service committee that meets every Wednesday at 9:30 a.m. via Zoom to review and prioritize the requests for help. A family's income is a consideration for aid. Their annual budget is $660,000 for supplies, and $400,000 for programs for the children. Their major source of income is from private donors, however, they are looking into gathering corporate sponsors. They recently were remembered by a donor's estate and now have a legacy managed by Wintrust. Ellen said they are creating a study to see where the least served school district is and determine how they can give that school a more level playing field. |