Detroit Area Talent Fund Evaluation

July 2025 - Current

Summary

Many Detroit-area students encounter significant barriers to completing a college degree, such as food insecurity, housing instability, and unexpected financial emergencies. In response, the Detroit Regional Chamber launched the Detroit Area Talent Fund (DATF) in 2023 to provide just-in-time emergency grants to students navigating time-sensitive financial challenges. The Youth Policy Lab is partnering with the Partnership for Education Equity and Research (Detroit PEER) at Wayne State University and Education Policy Initiative (EPI) at the University of Michigan to assess the implementation and overall effectiveness of DATF supports. As part of the project, the team is also examining the campus-based wraparound services delivered by a United Way for Southeastern Michigan (UWSEM) pilot program.  Using student and staff surveys, interviews, and administrative data analysis, the research team will develop evidence-based recommendations for improving and scaling college student basic need supports.

Stressed college student holding her head in her hand while sitting in front of a computer, other students talking in a group in the background

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