“The families are always grateful for the help as back-to-school can be expensive.”
– Mandi Olson, Ready Set School Director
Ready Set School received a $4,900 Cycle 1 Community Grant from the Winona Community Foundation in 2022. This grant supported their voucher program that provides school supplies and clothing to low-income Winona County K-12 families and students during the back-to-school time period. The amount will provide $70 vouchers to 70 children.
The organization reports having a 20% increase in need last year. At the end of their 2022 voucher program, Ready Set School was able to provide 949 vouchers worth $70/each to Winona County K-12 school children, which was reportedly more than what was anticipated.
“We believe inflation hurt families and more help was needed last year as the cost of basic living is more burdensome on families. Luckily, the community stepped up and we did raise the extra money needed to cover the additional vouchers.”
Ready Set School has been around Winona for over 25 years. The organization recieves community support from grants, events and general donations. Their voucher program will continue for Winona County K-12 students as long as they have the financial support. Unfortunately, the need does not appear to be going away. Ready Set School’s Board of Directors is committed to raising the funds and the awareness to sustain our program.
To learn more about Ready Set School, please visit readysetschoolwinona.org.
An important part of the Winona Community Foundation’s mission is realized though awarding community grants to meet the ever-changing needs of the community through a competitive process. By doing so, a variety of interests are supported with the goal of helping local charities make a difference in the Winona area. Our community grants for nonprofits are broad and inclusive to meet the current community needs in the Winona area. Make a gift in support of the Community grant program to make a difference today.
