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The LCU Fund for Women's Education is a non-profit organization with a rich history spanning over 165 years, dedicated to supporting newcomers and career-seekers pursuing their aspirations in the bustling metropolis of New York City. Established in 1858, the LCU Fund has been steadfast in its mission to provide women with safe and affordable housing, striving to remove barriers to educational success through innovative grant programs.

'''History '''

In 1858, a visionary group of New York women, led by Mrs. Marshall Orme Roberts, recognized the urgent need for safe and affordable housing for young, single women working in New York City. This led to the formation of the Ladies' Christian Union (LCU), an organization that raised funds to acquire brownstone buildings, which were then converted into residences for these working women. The LCU's commitment to creating housing opportunities remained unwavering, enduring financial crises, depressions, and wartime challenges. By the mid-twentieth century, the LCU managed six housing facilities in New York City.

In the year 2000, the LCU's board of directors made a pivotal decision to sell these properties, using the proceeds to establish an endowment fund. This endowment enabled the LCU Fund to provide housing grants to New York City educational institutions, specifically targeting female scholars with limited financial means. Further details about these scholars can be found in the Grantmaking section. In 2003, the LCU evolved into the LCU Foundation, a secular, non-profit private foundation. Then, in 2013, the Board of Directors initiated a new chapter by renaming it the LCU Fund for Women's Education, a change that better reflected the fund's grantmaking purpose.

'''Mission '''

The LCU Fund for Women's Education is dedicated to empowering women by offering them the opportunity to access safe and affordable housing, which serves as a gateway to educational and career advancement. Over the years, the organization has adapted its strategies to meet the evolving needs of the community while maintaining its core commitment to this essential cause.

'''501(c)(3) Non-Profit Foundation '''

The LCU Fund for Women's Education operates as a 501(c)(3) non-profit foundation under the laws of New York State. To learn more about the organization's leadership and board of directors, please refer to the Fund's board of directors section.