New Field Elementary School in Rogers Park serves area families with backgrounds from all different parts of the world. 40 plus languages are spoken in the homes of children who attend New Field. The neighborhood of Rogers Park, as one of the most diverse neighborhoods in Chicago, has seen high levels of ICE activity targeting residents, regardless of documentation status. Fear of ICE abductions has prevented some parents and guardians from being able to leave the house and, at times, some children from going to school. This economic disruption is happening at the same time that SNAP, which provides low-income households with benefits to buy groceries, is delayed due to the government shutdown.

This fund is intended to help New Field families financially meet basic needs*, like buying groceries, paying bills, and making rent. Examples of typical monthly basic needs and suggested donation amounts include:

$15 - prepaid monthly cell phone bill, allowing families to receive rapid response updates and keep in touch with family

$23 - Federal Monthly Snap Benefit Minimum: According to the Chicago Food Bank, $23 per month buys 5.8 meals, or enough for two days. https://www.chicagosfoodbank.org/snap-minimum-benefit/

$55 - Average monthly Chicago internet bill, allowing families to access resources and children to complete homework https://chicagorentals.com/average-utilities-costs-in-chicago-apartments/

$75 – Recommended minimum monthly SNAP benefit: According to the Chicago Food Bank this amount would enhance the purchasing power of low-income households, allowing them to purchase a wider variety of foods and reduce food insecurity. https://www.chicagosfoodbank.org/snap-minimum-benefit/

$91 - Average monthly Chicago electricity bill https://poweroutage.us/electricity-rates/il/chicago

Any amount- Any amount will help to support families and let them know that they are welcome and valued in our community.

This fund will be shared through a parent and guardian-led network of mutual aid. We appreciate all donations to help New Field families weather this challenging time.

*The New Field Parent/Guardian Network will have final approval on what constitutes basic needs. All funds will support New Field families and will be used for goods and services deemed basic needs by the New Field Parent/Guardian Network.

Please note: This solidarity fund is in no way affiliated with New Field or CPS. This is an effort put forth by community members for our school community. Solidarity work is rooted in the knowledge that we, as community members, should be working together to support each other while we dismantle institutions and systems of oppression.