ADVANCING JUSTICE
KEEPING FAMILIES AFLOAT: HOW RESILIENCE AND FLEXIBILITY MAKE A DIFFERENCE
In the heart of Evanston, the Infant Welfare Society (IWSE) stands as a beacon of hope for families facing extraordinary challenges. With a mission that goes far beyond traditional childcare, IWSE provides comprehensive support to the community’s most vulnerable families, particularly those in the lowest economic tiers.
Stepping Up Amidst Funding Uncertainty
2025 brought unprecedented challenges for IWSE. Federal funding threats to an already resource-strained early childhood sector created a perfect storm of financial insecurity. “Sometimes we’re operating for months without critical funding,” said Stephen Vick, IWSE Executive Director.
The Evanston Community Foundation’s Resilience Grant became the bridge needed to ensure IWSE could maintain critical services without interruption. This support meant keeping dedicated staff employed and continuing vital programs that support families at their most vulnerable moments.
One powerful example illustrates the grant’s impact:
When IWSE discovered that a young mother enrolled in one of its programs was sleeping on a train with her two young children, they were able to immediately mobilize resources. By leveraging partnerships and emergency funds, they quickly secured hotel housing and eventually a new apartment for the family.
Beyond the Resilience Grant, IWSE received a Community-Led Grant that provided crucial unrestricted support. This flexible funding allowed the organization to address needs that aren’t typically covered by traditional grants.
“Unrestricted funds allow us to do everything from maintaining our facilities to providing extended mental health services,” Steve explains. Whether it’s replacing an air conditioner or supporting a family through an extended crisis, these funds provide the critical flexibility nonprofits need to truly serve their communities.
More Than Childcare: A Holistic Approach
IWSE’s work goes far beyond babysitting childcare. They serve families through Early Head Start, supporting children from the lowest-income backgrounds. Their comprehensive approach includes nutrition education, mental health resources, and support for entire family units.
“We’re preparing children for kindergarten and beyond,” Diana Newton, IWSE’s Director of Development, emphasizes. “If we don’t support brain development and family stability in these critical early years, we’re setting up challenges for future education.”
By supporting the Evanston Community Foundation, donors aren’t just giving money—they’re providing lifelines to families, supporting innovative programs, and helping build a stronger, more resilient community. As Steve puts it, “The foundation’s support means we can keep fighting for our families, even when everything else seems uncertain.”