Family Access Network receives $50,000 grant from the Marie Lamfrom Charitable Foundation

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- The Family Access Network (FAN) has received a generous $50,000 grant from the Marie Lamfrom Charitable Foundation to support FAN’s efforts to alleviate poverty for school-aged children in Central Oregon.

Through a dedicated FAN advocate, located inside each public school in Crook, Deschutes and Jefferson (509J school district) counties, children and their family members gain access to the basic need resources they need to succeed in the classroom and beyond.

This funding gives FAN the flexibility to respond to emerging needs and represents an investment in the program’s continued success in aiding families with children who are struggling to make ends meet despite working long hours or multiple jobs.

“We are deeply thankful for the Marie Lamfrom Foundation’s belief in our advocates’ ability to empower their communities,” said, Julie Lyche, FAN’s executive director. “This funding will go a long way in making sure children in need are well-fed, well-rested, and well-equipped as they enter the classroom this year.”

The Marie Lamfrom Charitable Foundation has been supporting communities in Oregon and Washington since 1998 in honor of Marie Lamfrom’s spirit, legacy, and achievements.

In 2020, after a substantial investment from Marie’s daughter, Gert Boyle, the foundation was able to award exponentially more funding to deserving nonprofits in the areas of education, mentorship, arts, creativity, health, and well-being.

The foundation believes in nurturing human connection, learning and pursuing partnerships that value and empower others to yield positive outcomes, alleviate suffering, and promote thriving communities.

Unique to Central Oregon, FAN began in 1993 and currently employs 28 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 children and families in need to the essential resources to thrive.

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

Family Access Network’s mission is to offer assistance, possibility and hope to Central Oregon families in need by connecting them with crucial resources that will help children flourish in school and in life. Last year, FAN advocates improved the lives of nearly 8,000 children and family members in Deschutes, Crook, and Jefferson counties.