Family Protection, Food Insecurity, and Performing and Visual Arts Funds

13
FAMILY PROTECTION FUND
NEW
FOOD INSECURITY FUND
NEW
PERFORMING & VISUAL ARTS FUND
NEW
When a family needs
protection, the
community responds.
When access to food
changes, everything
else changes.
When the arts thrive,
so does the community
we share.
Fear of deportation and family separation has
caused significant disruptions in school and work
attendance across our immigrant community,
leading to a troubling cycle of missed learning
opportunities, lost income, and growing isolation.
Barriers to health and legal services have pushed
mental stress to an all-time high, leaving many
families without a clear path forward.
When Diana Taylor moved to Anne Arundel County,
she expected what many associate with one of
Maryland’s most affluent counties — good schools and
abundant opportunity. What she didn’t expect was how
many residents were quietly struggling. As Director
of Strategic Initiatives for the Anne Arundel County
Partnership for Children, Youth and Families, Diana
began seeing hidden challenges: families without reliable
access to food, parents making impossible choices, and a
county where prosperity and hunger exist side by side.
It’s well-documented that the arts can play a powerful
role in improving mental well-being. Participating in
the arts, whether through music, painting, theater, or
dance has been shown to reduce stress, boost selfesteem, and create connections with others. In times
of uncertainty or personal struggles, the arts can offer
both comfort and hope.
Yet, there is hope. Established in 2025, the Family
Protection Fund provides grants to nonprofits
building capacity around immigration-related legal
services and crisis support. Guided by the findings
of Poverty Amidst Plenty VIII, the fund connects
vulnerable individuals and families with the help they
need. Grantees from the inaugural 2025 grant cycle
are already making a difference.
Food insecurity has a trickle-down effect throughout
the community, Diana explained. When children are
hungry, they struggle to learn in school. When adults
lack consistent access to food, it can lead to both
physical and mental problems.
Yet, for many people experiencing stress, anxiety, or
feelings of hopelessness, access to the arts may not be
readily available. Barriers such as cost, transportation, or
limited community programming can prevent individuals
and families from participating in creative experiences
that can help them heal, connect, and learn.
SCAN THE QR CODE OR VISIT CFAAC.ORG/IMPACTVOICES TO
EXPLORE THESE FUNDS AND OTHER STORIES OF IMPACT.

Paperturn flip book