Mankato, MN (December 13, 2022) — The Mankato Area Foundation (MAF) announced that the Help Teachers, Help Children Fund reached its goal of raising over $40,000 to support teachers in the ISD 77 School District.

The fund will provide a $200 stipend to every elementary school classroom teacher in grades K-5 including special education classroom teachers. A group of ambitious volunteers developed the fund at MAF to provide financial relief for teachers who often will purchase items to support students. Laura Stevens is one of the leaders of the volunteer group.

“Children are struggling with meeting a variety of needs and teachers often reach into their own pockets to provide school supplies, clothing, snacks and more throughout the school year. Teachers know their students’ needs best,” said Stevens.

Shannon Sinning, ISD 77 School Board member and volunteer with the group, helped bring volunteers together with a shared vision.

“Our goal is to show our community’s support and help teachers respond timely to these needs,” said Sinning. “We are excited this pilot program has been a success and hope to raise more next year to provide stipends for teachers in middle school and maybe even high school.”

Nancy Zallek, President and CEO of MAF, will present a check at this month’s School Board meeting.

“We’re thrilled that this group of driven volunteers came to us with an idea that we could help make a reality. It’s another example of how our community continues to show its generosity by lifting up others when needed,” said Zallek.   

The School Board meeting will be held December 19, at 5:30 p.m. in Civic Center Plaza.

About the Mankato Area Foundation

The Mankato Area Foundation is a donor-driven community foundation whose purpose is to improve the livability in Greater Mankato through philanthropy. Our community foundation connects donors with causes they care about, provides funding to address key community objectives and convenes individuals and organizations to find solutions for local challenges.

To learn more about the Mankato Area Foundation and how the organization makes an impact on this region visit www.mankatoareafoundation.com or visit us on Facebook.

Help Teachers, Help Children Fund through the Mankato Area Foundation
Volunteer Contact: Laura Stevens
507-420-2186
helpteacherfund@gmail.com

About Mankato Area Public Schools

Committed to working together equitably, so that each learner has the knowledge and skills to be a successful and contributing citizen in a diverse global society.

Contact: Paul Peterson, Superintendent
507-387-1868
Ppeter1@isd77.org