Single-income households often operate without a financial buffer, leaving them particularly vulnerable to instability, displacement, and forced mobility within the Denver metro area. Even relatively small, one-time expenses can trigger cascading consequences-families may be forced to change schools, take on multiple jobs, or navigate the “cliff effect,” where slight income changes result in the loss of essential benefits.

The Second Fund exists to stabilize these moments. It is a community-based intervention designed to advance economic equity for single-parent households with children in Denver. The fund was created by a single mother who has personally navigated the structural gaps in the safety net-particularly the way modest, unexpected costs can derail otherwise stable households.

🔗 Get Involved —>

• Donate to The Second Fund: Support direct cash assistance for families

• Apply for Support: Submit an application and intake form

• Read Updates & Cost Trends: Instagram for The People’s House LLC to find ongoing data, stories, and analysis from participants

What the Fund Supports

The Second Fund provides flexible, one-time assistance for needs that often fall outside or between existing systems, including:

• Household bills (participants may also be referred to LEAP for eligible utilities, April–November)

• Child care costs (with referrals to CCAP at the county level)

• Back-to-school needs for both parent and child (with referrals to financial aid resources)

• Unplanned or emergency expenses identified by participants

• Transportation barriers related to work or school (with possible referrals to RTD)

• Holidays and birthdays, recognizing the importance of dignity and family stability

• Basic household needs, including some housing-related supports (with external referrals where appropriate)

• Wraparound needs not currently covered by existing local programs

• Costs resulting from loss or reduction of federal benefits, including newly inaccessible services

How It Works

Participants are connected to The Second Fund Application through community partners and direct outreach, including social media. All applicants complete an intake questionnaire and interview process.

As part of a broader support model, participants are also triaged and referred to additional local resources by experienced navigators to ensure they are connected to longer-term supports alongside immediate relief.

SUPPORT FAMILIES - DONATE HERE