Minnesota

Established in 1985, CDF-Minnesota is dedicated to addressing the specific needs of Minnesota’s children, youth, and families. Our advocacy efforts at the local and state levels encompass extensive research, community engagement, and youth development programs, paving the way for a better future for Minnesota's children and youth.

Bridge to Benefits

The Bridge to Benefits (B2B) website is a one-stop shop for information on public programs, tax credits, and tips on how to apply. The site includes a tool that screens for eligibility for medical assistance, MinnesotaCare, the Advanced Premium Tax Credit,

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Minnesota KIDS COUNT

KIDS COUNT, a project by the Annie E. Casey Foundation, serves as a key data resource on children and families, shaping programs and policies for enhanced outcomes. For over two decades, CDF-MN has been the KIDS COUNT grantee in Minnesota, driving impactful change. We annually publish the Minnesota KIDS COUNT Data Book,

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Dad holding his son.

Voices and Choices for Children

In 2014, CDF-MN launched an initiative to better involve marginalized Black, Brown, and American Indian communities, often underserved by existing early childhood education. Working closely with Governor Dayton’s Children’s Cabinet, state elected officials, state ethnic councils, early childhood funders, and

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Policy Priorities in Minnesota

Young woman claps her hands together and looks up to the sky in peace

Learn more about Minnesota’s policy priorities

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Updates in Minnesota

CDF Beat the Odds Program is Sunsetting

Since 1990, the Beat the Odds program has transformed young lives and emboldened youth on their path into adulthood. We are grateful to all who have supported this program over the years and honored to have played a part in amplifying the strength and talent of our Beat the Odds honorees. While we are retiring the CDF Beat the Odds program and brand, a new program is coming that will provide more robust support for young people and we look forward to your continued support.

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Teenage boy dances and laughs at Harambee.

Share Your Story

Your story matters. Have you or your community been impacted by our programs or advocacy work? We want to hear from you.

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Programs in Minnesota

Young girl dancing and smiling during Harambee.

Freedom Schools

At CDF Freedom Schools®, we’re not just educating; we’re nurturing lifelong learners and advocates for progress. By empowering the youngest generation, we’re sculpting a brighter tomorrow where we celebrate every young person’s potential, and affirming their impact on the world is profound.

CDF Freedom Schools

Movement Building

Through collaborative action and community-centered initiatives, we seek to reduce child poverty, achieve education equity, improve child well-being, and more. Together, we’re shaping a world where every young person’s journey is marked by dignity, hope, and joy.

Building a Movement for Youth

News from Minnesota

  • Policy Agenda

    CDF-MN Parent & Caregiver Quarterly Newsletter

    Community Engagement: Our team is establishing a network of activists, leaders, community members and parents for the organization and the broader child advocacy movement. …

  • Child Poverty

    Economic Justice Outreach News

    Since our establishment in 1985, Children’s Defense Fund-Minnesota (CDF-MN) has been at the forefront of addressing the unique needs of Minnesota’s children, youth, and families envisioning a nation where marginalized children flourish, leaders prioritize their well-being, and communities wield the power to ensure they thrive.…

  • Charity

    Celebration of Joy

    CDF-MN’s first annual Fundraising Social Thursday, April 25, 2024 at 6:30 p.m. at Fallon 500 N. 3rd Street in Minneapolis…

  • Policy Agenda

    2024 Legislative and Administrative Advocacy Agenda

    In 2023, the state of Minnesota made unprecedented investments in children and their families—with particular attention to addressing longstanding opportunity gaps for children growing up in Black, Indigenous and communities of color. These investments reflected a shared commitment to making Minnesota the best state in the country to be a child and raise a family—regardless of race, income, or geography.…

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Children’s Defense Fund – Minnesota

555 Park Street
Suite 410
St. Paul, MN 55103
Phone: 651-227-6121
Fax: 651-227-2553

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