Supporting Our Community: Resources, Support, and Safety

We know this continues to be a difficult time for many families in our school community, and we’ve heard from many of you—both those who need support right now and those asking how they can help. We’ve included those resources below.

We’re also resharing our district safety protocols related to immigration enforcement activity, along with information about laws and policies that protect student safety and immigrant family rights. The safety of our students and staff remains our top priority.

School District 197 will continue to advocate for all students and families. Please know that your children are at the heart of everything we do, and we will continue to create safe, welcoming spaces for learning where every student feels supported and connected.

Ways to Get Support

If your family needs support, help is available and our school community is here for you.

Basic Needs Support

For help with food, transportation, housing, or other basic needs, families are encouraged to contact their child's school. Teachers, principals, cultural liaisons, and 360 Communities family support workers are available to help connect families with the right resources.

Mental Health and Emotional Support

School counselors are available if your student needs a safe space to talk. In addition, we are exploring additional supports to ensure students have access to care and connection.

Educational Support

Reach out directly to your principal to discuss attendance accommodations and support.

Community Food and Family Support Resources

Dios Habla Hoy Church (DHH): Food deliveries available with no geographic limits. Families must complete this form: Despensa Familiar - Dios Habla Hoy
360 Communities: Each school in our district has a 360 Communities family support worker who can assist families with basic needs (food, housing, school supplies, etc.). Each school’s 360 Communities family support worker is listed on our website.
The Open Door Pantry: The Open Door Pantry, located in Eagan, is a food shelf that gives food and groceries to people in Dakota County at no cost. There are also food delivery and drive-through options available. More information is on the The Open Door Pantry website.
Neighbors, Inc.: Neighbors Inc., located in South St. Paul, is a food shelf that gives food and groceries at no cost. There are also food delivery and drive-through options available. More information is on the Neighbors Inc. website.

Ways to Give Support

We are grateful for the generosity of our community. If you are in a position to give, please consider:

Donating to your school’s PTA/PTO/parent groups, local food shelves, or family support organizations
Volunteering with community partners
Offering care, connection, and kindness to neighbors, classmates, and friends

Talking with Children About Difficult and Traumatic Events

Families have shared that navigating conversations about complex or traumatic events at home can be challenging. The following resources offer guidance on talking with children and supporting their emotional well-being:

Helping Children Cope After a Traumatic Event – Child Mind Institute
Talking to Children About Violence – National Association of School Psychologists
Helping Children and Adolescents Cope With Traumatic Events – National Institute of Mental Health
Traumatic Separation and Refugee and Immigrant Children: Tips for Caregivers – National Child Traumatic Stress Network

School District 197 Safety Reminders

January 8, 2026 message outlining district safety protocols and support for all students and families.
January 31, 2025 message highlighting district policies and state and federal laws that protect student safety and the education and privacy rights of immigrant families.

Together, we care. Together, we thrive.