Empowerment Fund FAQs

Empowerment Fund FAQs

  1. Is there a limit to how much I can ask for?
    There is no maximum or minimum. Applications will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. There is no guarantee the total amount can be funded. In some cases, a portion of the requested amount may be paid for.
  2. Can I request additional funding in the future?
    A survivor can access the RNEF once a year. Future funding would need to be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
  3. When are applications due?
    Applications can be submitted at any time of the year until the funds expend.
  4. How long will it take between submitting my application and hearing if it has been approved or not?
    Within 30 days of receipt of the application, notice of approval/denial of grant will be emailed to the advocate on record.
  5. How many grants are awarded each year?
    This depends on how many applications we receive and how much is requested per application. We have a budget of $30,000 to grant each year. Once that amount is exhausted, we will be unable to fund until the following year.
  6. What qualifications should I have in place to apply?
    o You are a survivor of sex trafficking.
    o You are working with an advocate at a partner organization.
    o You have a strong support system.
    o You can articulate how the funding will impact your life and your personal and career goals.
  7. What happens if I don’t complete the program I receive funding for?
    We ask that you alert us as soon as you realize you won’t be able to complete the program. If the issue is financial, we would like to be able to help you find resources so you can complete your course of study. Not completing the program makes you ineligible for future funding from Robins Nest Empowerment Fund.
  8. What expectations are there for me once I receive funding?
    Receiving a Robins Nest Empowerment Fund grant requires the grantee to complete a progress report by years end. It is also greatly appreciated if the recipient is willing to allow us to share their story anonymously for fundraising purposes.
  9. Is the funding given to me or to the institution I am attending?
    Funding is paid directly to the school or institution you are attending.