How CDF-Minnesota Helps Children

Children's Defense Fund has worked relentlessly for more than 35 years (since 1985 in Minnesota) to ensure a level playing field for all children. Supported by foundation and corporate grants and individual donations, CDF–Minnesota advocates nationwide on behalf of children to ensure children are always a priority.

Investments in children’s health coverage are returned many-fold over the life of a child. Children with access to coverage are more likely to grow up healthy, do better in school, and be ready to contribute to the future work force.

Bridge to Benefits

Linking families to public work support programs and tax credits.

Ending Child Poverty

Our vision is to end child poverty.

Beat the Odds® Program

The Beat the Odds® program honors outstanding high school students who have overcome tremendous adversity, demonstrated academic excellence and given back to their communities.

10-10-10 March For Children

Plans are underway for a Minnesota March for Children. The 10-10-10 March For Children will bring 10,000 concerned Minnesotans to the capitol on October 10, 2010 for a rally telling representatives that children must be strongly considered in all policy decisions made at the legislature.

CDF Freedom Schools® Program

The CDF Freedom Schools program provides summer and after-school enrichment that helps children fall in love with reading, increases their self-esteem, and generates more positive attitudes toward learning.

Youth Development & Leadership Training

Our vision is to create a successor generation of servant-leaders who will drive community and national transformations and inspire and make long-term improvements for all children.

Juvenile Justice

CDF supports policies that help children grow successfully by identifying what children need and championing what works.

CDF National Initiatives

The CDF national office, as well as CDF offices throughout the country are working to ensure that children are always a priority. Learn about CDF's three-year strategic plan focusing on four priorities for children.

How CDF-Minnesota Helps Children