WWFR Receives $29,960 from WCA Foundation to Launch Women Empowered Project
- WWFR
- Jul 16
- 2 min read
We’re excited to share some incredible news with our community: Will Work for Recovery (WWFR) has been awarded a $24,960 grant from the WCA Foundation, a Signature Fund of the Minneapolis Foundation, in support of our new initiative—the Women Empowered Project. In addition, we’ve received a special one-time $5,000 unrestricted “Meet the Moment” grant, bringing the total investment to $29,960.
This funding comes at a critical time as we expand our efforts to serve women transitioning from the criminal justice system—a population often overlooked and underserved in traditional recovery services. These women face unique and systemic barriers as they work to rebuild their lives post-incarceration, including limited access to housing, employment, healthcare, and family reunification support.
About the Women Empowered Project
The Women Empowered Project is a trauma-informed, peer-led initiative designed specifically for adult women impacted by incarceration. Through this program, WWFR will provide:
Direct recovery coaching and individualized recovery planning
Help obtaining government-issued identification
Support in finding felony-friendly employment and stable housing
Mentoring and advocacy throughout the reentry process
Parenting support to help women reconnect and reunify with their children
Tailored workshops that address trauma, self-sufficiency, and empowerment
By focusing on both immediate needs and long-term recovery goals, the project aims to reduce recidivism, promote personal healing, and help women thrive as independent and productive members of the community.
Meeting an Urgent Need in North Minneapolis
Women returning home from incarceration often carry the weight of untreated trauma, stigma, and poverty—all while navigating a system that is not designed with their success in mind. Many lack essential documents, face barriers to employment and healthcare, and are separated from their families.
This grant will allow WWFR to build capacity, deepen impact, and strengthen community partnerships to address these systemic gaps. The support from WCA Foundation ensures that we can meet women where they are and walk alongside them through one of the most difficult transitions of their lives.
Thank You to the WCA Foundation
We are beyond grateful to the WCA Foundation for recognizing the importance of this work and investing in the future of women in recovery. This partnership directly supports our mission to restore hope and opportunity for individuals and families in North Minneapolis and beyond.
Together, we are breaking cycles of incarceration, empowering recovery, and building stronger families and communities.
Stay connected for updates on the Women Empowered Project as it rolls out in the months ahead.
—The WWFR Team
