About the John Coughlin Hope Fund
The John Coughlin Hope Fund (JCHF) provides compassionate financial support to individuals and families facing urgent needs when no other resources are available. UW Valleys offer grants to help cover essential expenses such as rent, security deposits, mortgage payments, utility bills, medical costs, transportation (including car repairs), and other critical necessities.
JCHF works in close partnership with local community agencies to identify those experiencing short-term financial crises. Together, we ensure all available community resources are explored, while stepping in with direct support when gaps remain.
Honoring John Coughlin’s Legacy
John Coughlin served as the Executive Director of United Way St. Croix Valley for over 20 years, leaving an enduring legacy of compassion, leadership, and service. Until his passing in 2015, John was a deeply respected figure throughout the St. Croix Valley, known for his unwavering dedication to helping others and for inspiring those around him to support neighbors in need. His commitment to building a stronger, more caring community continues to guide our mission today.
As John's widow, Mary Beth, shared, "John would have been proud to have the Hope Fund named in his honor. He realized that unexpected events could find people in need of an extra helping hand. John was a compassionate, 'get things done' kind of person, and when he saw a need, he jumped right in to find ways to meet it."
How to Apply for Assistance
You can apply online using the form below, or download a printable version. Printed applications are also available at your local library. To request a paper copy by mail, contact the JCHF Coordinator at jchf@uwvalleys.org or call 715-377-0203 x109.
What Happens After You Apply
Once we receive your application, please allow 3–5 business days for an initial review. The JCHF Coordinator will reach out by phone to discuss your request, gather any additional details, and explain the next steps.
While most applications are processed within 1–3 weeks, timelines may vary based on individual circumstances and funding availability. Please note that JCHF is unable to provide immediate or same-day assistance, as each request requires thoughtful review and coordination.
Eligibility & Funding Criteria
To qualify for support from the John Coughlin Hope Fund (JCHF), applicants must meet the following criteria:
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Residency: Must reside in Burnett, Pierce, Polk, or St. Croix County.
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Shared Responsibility: The applicant must be able to contribute some funds toward the total expense.
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Previous Grants: Neither the applicant nor any member of their household may have received a JCHF grant within the past 12 months.
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Nature of Need: The request must be for a basic health or human services-related need.
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Emergency Circumstances: The need must result from an unforeseen event that has led to an emergency. The grant must address a one-time problem that is not expected to reoccur.
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Exhaustion of Resources: All other community resources must have been explored and/or exhausted before applying.
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Maximum Funding: per request is on a case-by-case basis and is typically not more than $500 in the following categories:
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Housing Assistance
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Transportation Needs
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Medical Expenses
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Utility Costs
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For full details, please review our John Coughlin Hope Fund Policies & Guidelines.
Additional Resources:
The National Low Income Housing Coalition is dedicated to achieving racially and socially equitable public policy that ensures people with the lowest incomes have quality homes that are accessible and affordable in communities of their choice.
County Health Rankings & Roadmaps (CHR&R), a program of the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute, draws attention to why there are differences in health within and across communities. The program highlights policies and practices that can help everyone be as healthy as possible. CHR&R aims to grow a shared understanding of health, equity and the power of communities to improve health for all. This work is rooted in a long-term vision where all people and places have what they need to thrive.