Makes & Bakes: Mutual Aid Fundraisers for our Neighbors

The City of Minneapolis has reported that the impact of Operation Metro Surge has cost Minneapolis communities over $203 million. While there are multiple sectors this impact has had, the highest sectors hurt as indicated by the city are Livelihood, including lost wages ($47 million) and small business and restaurant revenues ($81 million), and Shelter, which includes $15.7 million in rental assistance needed due to loss of income.

Despite these staggering numbers, NENA has found inspiration within every community in Minneapolis as a result of neighbors coming together to help one another, and Nokomis East is no different. Ignited by the passion of our community, NENA has been honored to partner with New Branches and a legion of creators and makers to host a series of mutual aid fundraisers, Makes & Bakes, for Nokomis East neighbors. 

More than $13,000 was raised over three community centric events,

with all funds raised going to Nokomis East Neighbors.

The first event was held on February 28, 2026 where over 20 makers and bakers donated their goods for purchase, with all funds raised going to rent support. Cookies, bars, stickers, plants, you name it, there was something for everyone. The amount raised was $6,735, which was all donated to families and students at Keewaydin and Wenonah Elementary and meant that no one - students and teachers alike - were going to lose their homes. “I was astounded by our neighbors”, said Sarah Friedman “I was hoping to raise maybe $500 in the event. I really can’t thank the community enough for their outpouring of kindness. …I also want to give a special thank you to Dennis, the New Branches manager, for making this happen.”

Fueled by the generosity of the community at the February event, the neighbors again stepped up to coordinate another Makes & Bakes event on March 21, and NENA and New Branches partnered to host. NENA’s role was to provide technical support with communication and promotion, along with onsite day-off coordination. New Branches generously offered their space for no charge, as well as equipment like tables, chairs, and other necessary supplies. And the makers and bakers? They came through with their handmade goods, donating items personally made with love and care, in an effort to support their neighbors. The March 21 event raised a whopping $5,039! These funds were once again provided to Keeywaydin and Wenonah Elementary school students and families for rent support.

The third Makes & Bakes event, a fundraiser for mutual aid, was hosted on April 25, 2026. One hundred percent of funds raised from this event will go to neighbors who need housing and other basic needs support. Held again at New Branches church, NENA was excited to co-host. As a community centric event, it was an engaging experience for neighbors, while raising money for those in need. We were thrilled to welcome individuals, families, and children, and the community connections fostered at the event!