Oakwood Assistance Fund
The Oakwood Assistance Fund benefits children and adults who have Prader-Willi Syndrome (PWS).
The Fund is financed by the Oakwood Foundation, which was established by the sale of the Oakwood Residence — the first successful home in the U.S. dedicated to PWS. A pioneer in the field of residential programs for PWS, it served 15 persons in Minnesota from 1981 to 2001.
The Oakwood Foundation board distributes the income from their investment to the Prader-Willi Syndrome Association of Minnesota (PWSA-MN). A grant committee, established by PWSA-MN, reviews and prioritizes grant requests.
Who can apply for a grant?
Any child or adult who lives in Minnesota and has Prader-Willi Syndrome may apply for a grant. The individual's parent, guardian, caregiver, or other representative may also apply.
What types of needs can be funded?
The purpose of the Fund is to benefit and enhance the lives of people in Minnesota who have PWS. It supports a wide variety of needs — from life-enhancement items or activities to medical needs to products, services, or experiences aimed at helping a caregiver give better care. The grant committee makes a special effort to address requests involving critical needs as soon as possible.
Grant amounts may range from under $100 to over $1,000, depending on the Fund's resources, the number of applications, and the nature of the requests.
Examples of past grants include funding for medical and dental needs, camperships, exercise equipment, gym memberships, leisure and educational equipment (such as TVs and iPads), travel, and clothing (such as a prom dress).
How are grant decisions made?
PWSA-MN's grant committee reviews applications and awards grants on a sliding scale, taking into account factors such as the total funds available, the number of competing requests, the urgency of the need, and the financial ability of the applicant. Applicants are expected to contribute a portion of the total cost.
What should I include in my application?
Please include the following in your application:
The applicant's name and address
The email address and phone number of the applicant or designated contact person
The name to whom a check should be made payable if the request is approved
A clear statement of the total cost of the product, service, or experience, along with the applicant's financial situation
A description of why this grant is needed and what other resources might help
An explanation of why this product, service, or experience will make a difference in the life of the Minnesota individual with PWS