The Itasca County Sharing Fund, a fund managed by the Grand Rapids Area Community Foundation, has been instrumental in assisting individuals in our community with crisis funding during challenging times.  Crisis grants have been issued for items such as housing, transportation, and utilities. The Grand Rapids Area Community Foundation will be transitioning the responsibility of overseeing the Itasca County Sharing Fund to First Call 211 effective date of January 1, 2024.  The change aims to enhance efficiency, transparency, and impact of the fund, ensuring that it continues to serve the needs of our community in the best possible way.  First Call 211 brings a wealth of experience and expertise in community support and crisis management and they have a vast knowledge of the crisis funding available in the area.

Kate Crowe of First Call 211 will be responsible for the day-to-day operations related to the Itasca County Community Fund.  Nonprofit agencies submitting applications on behalf of Greater Itasca Area individuals can access the application, beginning January 1, 2024, on the First Call 211 website www.firstcall211.net.  If you have questions or want more information, you can call First Call 211 at 218-326-8565 or email them at communityfund@firstcall211.net.