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FAMILY SUPPORT SERVICES

Educational Benefits

Educational Benefits Forms are used to determine if families qualify for free or reduced-price school meals, but they do much more than that. Completed forms help the school access important state and federal funding that supports all students, providing resources for classrooms, technology, and student programs. Families who qualify may also receive discounts on fees for activities, testing, and other services. Even if you don’t think you’ll qualify, submitting a form helps ensure our school receives the funding it needs to benefit every student. You may be eligible for Educational Benefits. Fill out this form and return it to the school.

Husky Community Resource Closet

North Lakes Academy has recently opened a Husky Community Resource Closet in each of our school to support families in need by providing free, gently used clothing and essential items.

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The Husky Community Resource Closet offers a variety of resources for NLA students, including non-perishable food items, shirts, pants, sweatshirts, hats, gloves, socks, school supplies, backpacks, toiletries, and feminine hygiene products. All items are available at no cost, and families are welcome to browse and take what they need.

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To arrange a convenient time to visit, please contact our Student and Family Resource Coordinator, Karen Kloer, at kkloer@northlakesacademy.org.

There is a Husky Community Resource Closet is located at both campuses.

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Items like those described above, for students K-12, will be gratefully accepted. 

Minnesota Tax Programs for Families

The following information was provided by the Minnesota Department of Revenue. These programs are not part of the school district, but the information is provided as a service to families.

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Minnesota offers several credits that ease the financial burden for families, renters, homeowners, and working individuals:

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Child Tax Credit

  • Families may qualify for a Child Tax Credit of $1,750 per qualifying child with no limit on the number of children claimed. They can receive a refund even if they do not owe tax.

  • If a qualifying child is older than 17, filers may not claim them for the Child Tax Credit, but may be able to claim them for the Credit for Qualifying Older Children.

For more information, visit our Child Tax Credit webpage, or watch our video on the Child Tax Credit.

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Credit for Qualifying Older Children

If taxpayer has a qualifying child who is older than 17, they may be eligible for the Credit for Qualifying Older Children. 

The credit is:

  • $925 for one qualifying older child

  • $2,100 for two qualifying older children

  • $2,500 for three or more qualifying older children

For more information, visit our Credit for Qualifying Older webpage. 

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Working Family Credit

  • Provides a tax credit for working individuals and families, helping to reduce state income taxes and increase refunds.

  • Is for working individuals whose income is below a certain level. They may receive a refund even if they do not owe tax.

The credit is 4% of your earned income, up to a maximum of $350.  For more information, visit our Working Family Credit webpage.

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K-12 Credit and Subtraction

  • K-12 Credit: Helps reduce taxpayers’ state income tax or provides a refund for qualifying education expenses.

  • K-12 Subtraction: Allows them to subtract educational expenses from your income up to:

    • $1,625 per child (grades K-6)

    • $2,500 per child (grades 7-12)

For more information, visit our Qualifying Expenses for the K-12 Education Credit and Subtraction webpage, or watch our video on the K-12 Credit and Subtraction.  

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Property Tax Refund

Minnesota has both the Homestead Credit Refund (for Homeowners) and the Renter's Property Tax Refund:

  • Homeowners may be eligible for a refund if their property taxes exceed a certain percentage of their income

  • Renters can receive a refund based on their income and the rent they pay

For more information, visit Property Tax Refund webpage. 

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Questions?

If you have questions on these credits or need more information, contact our outreach coordinators:

Supporting Students and Families Experiencing Homelessness

According to the McKinney-Vento Act, individual students and/or families experiencing homelessness are defined as lacking a fixed, regular and adequate nighttime residence, including students/families who are:

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  • Sharing the housing of others due to loss of housing, economic hardship, or similar reason

  • Living in motels, hotels, or camp grounds due to the lack of alternative accommodations

  • Are living in emergency or transitional shelters

  • Living in a car, park, or public space

  • Living in substandard or unsafe housing (lack of water or electricity, etc) 

  • Unaccompanied youth who are not in the physical custody of a parent or guardian

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The McKinney-Vento Homeless Education Act provides students experiencing homelessness and highly mobile students with certain rights so they have access to opportunities that will help them meet the same high academic standards expected of all students in our district, including:

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  • Immediate enrollment in school

  • Immediate eligibility  for Educational Benefits

  • Transportation to the school they attended when they became homeless (school of origin)

  • Access to academic services and family support resources

  • Automatic qualification for reduced or waived programming fees

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These opportunities for students and families are funded through state and federal programs. If you are experiencing homelessness, please contact your school counselor or Karen Kloer.

K-6 Counselor: Erin Bosman (ebosman@northlakesacademy.org or 651.982.2773 x 127)

7-12 Counselor: Adriana Lee (alee@northlakesacademy.org or 651.982.2688 x 6277)

Student and Family Resource Coordinator: Karen Kloer (kkloer@northlakesacademy.org or 651.982.2688 x 6265)

Outside Resources for Families in Need

Energy Assistance

Finding Help

County Health and Human Services Assistance Programs: 
Washington County Community Services
Anoka County Assistance
Chisago County Financial Assistance
 

Community Action Partnership of Ramsey and Washington Counties: Find rent, utility, food, weatherization, health, and affordable housing resources for both Ramsey and Washington County residents. 
 

Bridge to Benefits  provides an online tool for self-screening for public assistance benefits. By answering a few simple questions, you will be able to see if you or someone else may be eligible for public support programs. It does not ask you for information that identifies you. It’s easy, confidential and free!
 

CALL 2-1-1 - United Way Assistance Toll-Free: 800-543-7709; Local: 651-291-0211 Or text your zip code to 898-211 https://www.211unitedway.org  

Food Resources

​Open Cupboard: 1-888-711-1151 (Helpline open M-F, 9am-5pm).Enter your address to find a list of free food shelves, discount mobile markets and free meals near you.

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Minnesota Food Helpline: 1-888-711-1151 (Helpline open M-F, 9am-5pm).Enter your address to find a list of free food shelves, discount mobile markets and free meals near you. https://www.hungersolutions.org/find-help/ 
 

Family Pathways Food Shelves: Families shop (free of charge) monthly for perishable and non-perishable food items, household products, and personal hygiene products. Additional weekly visits are encouraged to pick up fresh dairy, deli, produce, and bread. Call your local food shelf office to make an appointment. https://www.familypathways.org/ 
 

Community Helping Hand Food Shelf is an emergency food shelf that may be used up to 6 times per year. Residents of the Forest Lake School District (ISD 831) are eligible. To schedule an appointment, please fill out the form on their website or call them at 651-464-0061. http://communityhelpinghand.org 
 

Fare for All Food Support: Fare For All buys fresh produce and frozen meat in bulk from wholesalers, manufacturers, and growers. Volunteers bundle it into $10 - $30 packages that are sold at sale locations across Minnesota. Find a Fare for All food sale near you: https://thefoodgroupmn.org/groceries/fare-for-all/schedule/ or go to: facebook.com/fareforall
 

Valley Outreach: A community-powered nonprofit that provides food, clothing, and support to people who need help. Valley Outreach is located in Stillwater, Minnesota, offering programs for all ages. valleyoutreachmn.org
 

Ruby's Pantry: Ruby’s Pantry distributes food at Pop-Up Pantry locations across MN & WI. There is no income or residency requirement and for a $25 bundle donation you will receive an abundance of groceries. https://rubyspantry.org/
 

Second Harvest Heartland: is offering assistance in applying for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). SNAP (formerly known as Food Stamps) is a monthly financial benefit that helps you to purchase healthy food at your local grocery and convenience stores, farmer’s markets and online through an  Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, which you can use like a debit card. https://www.2harvest.org/get-help/snap
 

MN Department of Human Services is offering on-line EBT availability to current SNAP recipients: See information HERE on how to make Online EBT Purchases through Amazon and Walmart. Participants cannot use cash assistance dollars – only SNAP for online purchasing. Participants will need to pay for delivery fees and taxes, if applicable, with another payment source (credit card or debit card, PayPal).

Housing and Rent Resources

HousingLink: Affordable housing search tool. https://www.housinglink.org/

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Home Line: Free and low cost tenant advocacy services. https://homelinemn.org/

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  • For English, call 612-728-5767

  • For Spanish, call 612-255-8870

  • For Somali, call 612-255-8860

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St. Andrew's Community Resource Center:  Service hours (in person) Monday through Thursday, 8 am – 4 pm. Guests are also encouraged to call our intake line (651-762-9124 ) for assistance with resources. Emergency family shelter, emergency rental assistance, clothing, food & basic needs, employment resources. 
https://www.saintandrews.org/serve/serve-care-locally/community-resource-center/

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Solid Ground, 3521 Century Avenue N, White Bear Lake, MN 55110, Phone: 651.773.8401, E-mail: info@solidgroundmn.org. Office Hours: 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, and by appointment. https://www.solidgroundmn.org/

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Bridge for Youth: Youth ages 10-17 years can text/ call to get help during a crisis including housing. 612-377-8800 or text 612-400-7233  https://www.bridgeforyouth.org

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The Connect Center: A drop-in center for youth experiencing unstable housing. Offering hot food, showers, computer labs, and assistance with resources and referrals. To call and make an appointment with a youth advocate: 612-475-4055
https://www.theconnectcenter.org

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Washington County CDA: The Washington County CDA provides help with housing costs to over 650 families through a variety of state and federal programs. 
https://www.washingtoncountycda.org

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Mortgage Forbearance info: Consumer Financial Protection Bureau offers information on mortgage forbearance due to the coronavirus pandemic. For more information, including how to request forbearance, visit cfpb.gov/housing. Looking for resources in Spanish? Check out this video: Aplazamientos de hipotecas en la Ley CARES: Lo que usted necesita saber.

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MN Homeownership Center HOCMN If you are a homeowner who is struggling or unable to meet your mortgage loan obligations, work with one of our trusted housing experts to find a solution that can keep you in your home. Foreclosure can be prevented – don’t wait until you fall further behind to seek help.

Energy Assistance

Minnesota Energy Assistance Program (EAP)Minnesota’s Energy Assistance Program offers eligible renters and homeowners help to pay their energy bills so they do not have to choose between life’s necessities.  
https://mn.gov/commerce/energy/consumer-assistance/energy-assistance-program/

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To apply:

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Anoka County: Anoka County Community Action Program, 763-783-4712, Blaine, MN
https://accap.org/energy-assistance/

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Chisago County:  Lakes and Pines Community Action Council, 320-679-1800 or 1-800-832-6082, Mora, MN
https://www.lakesandpines.org/energy-assistance

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Washington County: Community Action Partnership of Ramsey and Washington County, 651-645-6470, St. Paul, MN
https://caprw.org/services/energy-food-housing/energy-assistance.html

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Or: Visit https://mn.gov/commerce/consumers/consumer-assistance/energy-assistance/ to learn more or call 1-800-657-3710 to connect with your local service provider.

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Community Action Partnership: Community Action offers a variety of services to help meet the immediate needs of people living in Ramsey and Washington counties. Learn how we can help you pay your heat and water bills, keep your home safe and warm, access Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits, get your home weatherized, apply for a car loan, and assist you with filing your taxes.
caprw.org/get-assistance.html

Low Cost Internet and Phone

Affordable Connectivity Program: The Federal Communications Commission has launched the Affordable Connectivity Program that helps ensure that households can afford the broadband they need for work, school, healthcare and more.

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The benefit provides a discount of up to $30 per month toward internet service for eligible households and up to $75 per month for households on qualifying Tribal lands. Eligible households can also receive a one-time discount of up to $100 to purchase a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet from participating providers if they contribute more than $10 and less than $50 toward the purchase price.

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The Affordable Connectivity Program is limited to one monthly service discount and one device discount per household.

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Two Steps to Enroll:

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  1. Go to AffordableConnectivity.gov to submit an application or print out a mail-in application.

  2. Contact your preferred participating provider to select a plan and have the discount applied to your bill.

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Some providers may have an alternative application that they will ask you to complete.

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Eligible households must both apply for the program and contact a participating provider to select a service plan.

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You can learn more about the benefit, including eligibility and enrollment information, by visiting www.fcc.gov/acp, or by calling 877-384-2575


Other Options
Washington County Library: Wi-Fi hotspots and Chromebooks are now available to check out, for free! You must have a library card registered with Washington County Library.

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Xfinity Internet Essentials from Comcast offers low cost/free internet access.

Mental Health Resources

If you have concerns about self-harming behavior for yourself or your child, or believe you or your child may be in danger please contact one of the resources below. If this is an emergency situation, please call 911 or call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.  (24/7 365-day-a-year hotline for people experiencing suicidal crisis or emotional crisis distress.)

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Minnesota Warmline: Are you an adult needing support? Talk to a specialist who has firsthand experience living with a mental health condition.

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Call: 651-288-0400, Text: "Support" to 85511

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Fast-Tracker: Find a mental health or chemical dependency treatment provider

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Local Mental Health Counseling/Therapy Agencies:

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  • Lakes Center for Youth and Families; (651) 464-3685

  • Canvas Health; (651) 251-5220

  • Family Innovations; (651) 407-3631

  • Therapeutic Services Agency; (651) 224-4114

  • Bridges and Pathways; (651) 982-4792

Health Resources

MN Department of Human Services: Central location to find information on Health Care, Food and Nutrition access, Covid 19 updates, and how to apply for Medical Assistance.
https://mn.gov/dhs/

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Bridge to Benefits: The MN Low-Cost Health Care Directory is a list of low-cost or free physical, mental and dental health care clinics compiled to help uninsured and underinsured Minnesotans find access to affordable health care. 
http://mn.bridgetobenefits.org/MN_Low_Cost_Health_Care_Directory

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St. Mary's Health Clinic: Provides health care services at no cost to low income, uninsured individuals and families. 651-287-7777
www.stmaryshealthclinics.org 

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Washington County Immunization Clinics: Vaccines are available through the Minnesota Vaccines for Children (MnVFC) and Un-and Underinsured Adult Vaccine (UUAV) Programs. Eligibility - Children (18 years of age and younger) who do not have health insurance, or are on a Minnesota Health Care Program such as MA, MinnesotaCare, or PMAP, or who are American Indian or Alaskan Native, or who have health insurance that does not cover vaccines. Adults (19 and older) who do not have health insurance or their insurance does not cover certain vaccines, and must be residents of Minnesota to be eligible. There is a $15 administration fee for each immunization,  but no eligible person will be turned away regardless of ability to pay the cost.
co.washington.mn.us/594/Immunizations

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Children's Dental Services: Children's Dental Services specializes in children's dental care and provides dental services to children from infancy to age 26, pregnant women, and people of all ages, regardless of family income. CDS accepts all types of insurance: Private Insurance, Medical Assistance, and a discount for families who are ineligible for Medical Assistance. 
childrensdentalservices.org

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COVID-19 information in other languages:

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Domestic Violence Resources

Minnesota Day One Shelter & Crisis Hotline: 1-866-223-1111 assists you to get help, get safe, and get support. One call connects you with an advocate trained in supporting victims and survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking who can help you find a shelter and the services you need in your area. Email: safety@dayoneservices.org

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Women's Advocates: Safety Resource Hub is an online resource that is a helpful way to navigate the process of finding help and staying safe.

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SAFE: case management and support for African American women and their children experiencing domestic violence. Led by an African American team, services are culturally-specific. Call or text (612) 289-2169. More info at https://www.180degrees.org/safe-harbor.html

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Casa de Esperanza Crisis/Intake phone: 651-772-1611 (24-hours; bilingual English/Spanish).

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Cornerstone 24-Hour Crisis Phone: 952-884-0330 or toll-free 1-866-223-1111.Available 24 hours a day and 7 days a week to anyone in imminent danger of domestic violence, sexual violence and human trafficking. Spoken and ASL interpreters are available for all of our services.

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Women of Nations—Women of Nations provides culturally-specific emergency services and support to all who have experienced trauma from domestic violence and sexual assault. We empower Native American communities to put an end to all forms of violence through education and prevention: 651-251-1609 

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OutFront Minnesota, Call 612-822-0127, option 3, or 800-800-0350 to talk with a trained LGBTQ Anti-Violence Program advocate who can connect you to resources or talk through options regarding your current situation.

Work/Unemployment Resources

MN Economic and Employment Development - Information and Resources for Workers

Legal Resources

Mid Minnesota Legal Aid: Free legal help for low income Minnesota residents with a full range of civil matters in 20 central Minnesota counties. Call the intake line at 612-334-5970.

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Southern Minnesota Regional Legal Services (SMRLS)  Offers free legal help to low-income and senior citizen (60+) clients in a full range of civil matters in 33 southern and east metro counties. To get help call 1-888-575-2954, apply online, or visit am I eligible. 

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Law Help Minnesota: Free legal help for Minnesota residents.

Refugee/Immigrant Resources

New DHS Immigrant/Refugee Hotline

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Minnesota recently launched a new hotline specifically for refugees and immigrants to ensure they have access to accurate, timely information about the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Refugees and other immigrants can call 651-318-0989 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, for information on: 

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  • COVID-19 testing locations

  • Food support

  • Health care and mental health resources 

  • Housing and rental assistance

  • COVID-19 case investigation and contact tracing.

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The hotline has staff that can speak Amharic, Anuak, Arabic, French, Hindi, Karen, Lingala, Luganda, Mashi, Oromo, Somali, Spanish and Swahili. Language line help is available for any other language.

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Those who call the hotline can also get information about the services offered through Minnesota’s Resettlement Network, which helps refugees and other humanitarian immigrants with schooling, employment and citizenship. Learn more about the Resettlement Network on the department’s refugee programs webpage.

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Immigrant Law Center of Minnesota: Provides immigration legal assistance to low-income immigrants and refugees in Minnesota. Please call 651-641-1011 or 1-800-223-1368 for legal assistance. Website in Spanish and English.  No fee for services for those who qualify; interpreter services are available as needed.

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International Institute of Minnesota:  Provides a broad range of refugee resettlement and immigration & citizenship services. Call 651-647-0191.

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Comunidades Latinas Unidas en Servicio (CLUES):  CLUES COVID-19 Hotline - services available online, resources, and more. Call or text 651-768-0000. Servicios disponibles en línea, recursos y más. Llame o texto 651-768-0000

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African Immigrants Community Services, 1433 E. Franklin Ave, Suite 13B, Minneapolis, MN 55404, info@aicsmn.org, (612) 871-9481

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Karen Organization of Minnesota:  Provide support and services for Karen and all refugees from Burma in Minnesota. 2353 Rice Street #240, Roseville, MN 55113, 651-788-7593, info@mnkaren.org

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Vietnamese Social Services of Minnesota:  277 University Avenue West Phone: 651-632-8927 Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30 am-4 pm. Provide services for Vietnamese, Karen, Burmese and other immigrant and refugee groups in the 7 county metro area.

Other Local Resources

Northwoods Humane Society - near Forest Lake: Low-cost spay/neuter, help feeding your pet, surrendering a pet.
651-982-0240,  www.northwoodshs.org

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Car Ownership Program: Through Community Action Partnership. We provide a low-interest loan up to $6,000 to help you purchase a car and we guide you through the car buying process. Must live in Ramsey or Washington County and have a continuous work history of 6+ months at a minimum of 20 hours per week, and have a household income at or below the 200% federal poverty guidelines. 
caprw.org/services/money-jobs-transportation/cop.html

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The Car Clinic: The Car Clinic is a non-profit ministry in Elk River Minnesota that provides vehicle repairs and maintenance to single parents, seniors, veterans, the homeless, or persons in financial need. The Car clinic is held once per month, typically on a Saturday.
thecarclinic.org

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The Lift Garage is a nonprofit aimed to move people out of poverty and homelessness by providing low-cost car repair, free pre-purchase inspections, and honest advice that supports our community on the road to more secure lives. 
theliftgarage.org

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