Meyer Memorial Trust has awarded Family Access Network (FAN) a grant of $37,500 to bolster FAN advocate services throughout Central Oregon. In the first half of the 2023- 24 school year alone, FAN advocates facilitated connections for 5,309 individuals across the region, linking them to essential resources like nourishing food, secure shelter, seasonally appropriate clothing, school supplies, and much more. The funding from Meyer Memorial Trust will further strengthen FAN advocate services, benefiting local students.

“We are deeply grateful to Meyer Memorial Trust for their generous grant, which will greatly enhance our ability to serve Central Oregon,” said Julie Lyche, FAN Executive Director. “Their commitment to accelerating racial, social, and economic justice aligns perfectly with our mission, and we’re honored to be part of their vision for a brighter future.”

Established in 1982, Meyer Memorial Trust has awarded roughly $930 million in grants and program-related investments to more than 3,500 organizations in Oregon. Their mission is to accelerate racial, social, and economic justice for the collective well-being of Oregon’s lands and peoples. In 2023, Meyer Memorial Trust announced new funding priorities to support and advance: Our Empowered Youth, Our Collective Prosperity, Our Resilient Places, Our Shared Purpose, and Together, We Rise. These priorities are driven by their vision of a future where all people are welcome, included, and empowered to positively impact their communities and the world around them.

Unique to Central Oregon, FAN began in 1993 and currently employs 30 advocates at 65 sites in Deschutes, Crook, and Jefferson counties. These advocates work tirelessly to help families break the cycle of poverty. The direct placement of FAN advocates within schools allows FAN to effectively reach and connect disadvantaged children and families to essential basic needs.

To learn more about the Family Access Network, please visit familyaccessnetwork.org or call (541) 693-5675.