PRISM raises over $100,000 for housing

Ness spoke about being impressed and inspired by the volunteers. Some groups have made planned deliveries from PRISM.

“As they’re coming to us, I’m also having conversations about just making sure that they’re well prepared: food storage, data privacy, liability and should you engage with ICE, are you prepared for that?” Ness said. “And it’s really impressive, the amount of training and really thoughtful preparations they’re going through, not just of the driver but of the family they’re serving.”

It’s not just a food shelf; PRISM also provides housing assistance. At least 100 families have reached out for help this month.

During the pandemic, programs like RentHelpMN were more widespread. In recent years, while housing costs have continued to climb, the assistance has decreased. Combined with changes to Medicare and SNAP, as well as tariffs increasing the cost of goods, the need has continued to grow.

This year, PRISM has raised an extra $109,000 to help people pay for housing. This money has come from individuals who wanted to help.

According to Ness, households may be eligible for up to $2,000 in rent and utility assistance.

Having exceeded the original goal of $100,000, the organization now strives to raise $200,000.

Ness said she hopes people who feel inspired to help will consider giving money to established nonprofits like PRISM, as they provide year-round support to the community.

“You don’t have to reinvent the wheel,” Ness said.

She added that PRISM can give receipts and that charitable donations are tax deductible.

To donate, go to secure.qgiv.com/for/housingfunds.