A gift to the Compassion Fund helps Chicago Public Schools students and families thrive this holiday season and beyond.
Why it Matters
The holiday season is a time for generosity, connection, and joy. But for many Chicago Public Schools students and families, it can also bring added financial pressures and difficult choices.
This season, Children First Fund invites our philanthropic community to make a meaningful difference through a financial gift to the Compassion Fund. The Compassion Fund is a flexible fund that lets CPS schools act quickly when students and families need help, whether that’s a warm coat, groceries, or support after an emergency.
Through the Compassion Fund, schools can help students and families facing a range of challenges, including:
• Holiday joy and connection: Helping schools provide gifts and other seasonal support that make the holidays brighter for students and families.
• Winter essentials: Providing warm clothing, coats, and other necessities to help students navigate Chicago’s coldest months.
• Food and basic needs: Supporting families experiencing food insecurity or difficulty accessing everyday essentials.
• Family assistance during times of crisis: Helping schools respond to unexpected hardships, including job loss, housing instability, or other emergencies.
• Student well-being and attendance: Addressing basic needs and barriers that can interfere with students’ ability to attend school and engage in learning.
Give Where it Matters Most
A contribution to the Compassion Fund allows Children First Fund to work with CPS schools to direct resources toward pressing needs, whether that means providing immediate relief during the holiday season or helping a student or family navigate an unexpected challenge.
About Children First Fund
Children First Fund (CFF), the Chicago Public Schools Foundation, is the philanthropic and partnership arm of Chicago Public Schools (CPS). It serves as a knowledge hub and liaison between CPS and its community of partners, securing and organizing resources that advance CPS’ mission to provide a high-quality public education that prepares every child in every neighborhood for success in college, career, and civic life. For more information, please visit https://www.childrenfirstfund.org or find us on social @ChiFirstFund. 90 cents of every dollar donated to Children First Fund goes directly to support CPS students, programs, and services.
