Funds Will Enhance Fan Advocate Services Throughout Central Oregon

The Family Access Network (FAN) has received a $15,000 grant for general operations from the Ronald W. Naito MD Foundation. Many FAN families are low-income, living in poverty, or experiencing homelessness. The families also include ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) families, meaning their household is bringing in income, but it is insufficient to keep up with the rising cost of living or to afford the basic necessities. According to the most recently reported data from the United Way for ALICE, 54% of households meet the ALICE threshold or the Federal Poverty Level in Crook County; 34% in Deschutes; and 45% in Jefferson. These are families who are one hardship away from falling into poverty.

“Education plays an integral role in alleviating poverty,” said Julie N. Lyche, FAN Executive Director. “This funding from RWN Foundation will bolster FAN services throughout Central Oregon and is vital for FAN advocates to be a one-stop shop for resources and connection to crucial resources and community partners within Central Oregon.”

Based in Portland, Oregon, and created in 2019 by Dr. Ron Naito, the Ronald W. Naito MD Foundation continues his legacy of healing by supporting nonprofit organizations that strengthen, protect, and transform our communities and our planet. In life as in medical practice, Ron was committed to continuous learning, to balancing analytical rigor with compassion and empathy, and to listening quietly to others’ concerns and experiences before trying to help. This foundation aspires to follow in his footsteps. Their priority funding areas are Climate, Health Equity, Oregon Arts & Education, and Sustainable Communities.

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.