Feds Spent $27 million on Minnesota Somali Community Since FY2021

 The federal government has spent $27 million on the Somali community in Minnesota since fiscal year 2021. This funding relates to various programs aimed at cultural preservation, education, and health. However, recent arrests of Somali immigrants for welfare fraud have raised concerns about the usage of these funds.

1. Welfare Fraud Allegations: Many Somali immigrants in Minnesota have been arrested for involvement in welfare scams, amounting to over a billion dollars. The fraud includes misuse of COVID-19 emergency funds intended for hungry children and Medicaid.

2. Federal Funding Overview: The $27 million spent includes federal grants targeted at the Somali community or part of broader minority outreach efforts. The funding aims to help this community preserve its culture and improve outcomes in areas like education and health.

3. University of Minnesota Projects:

• Cultural Programs: $416,664 supports an after-school program that integrates arts to help Somali American teenagers connect with their cultural roots.

• Educational Initiatives: $467,000 funds a project addressing the impact of structural barriers (like racism) on Somali youths' education.

• Diversity in Education: $773,154 is designated for increasing diversity among educators in Minnesota.

4. Autism Research Funding:

• A total of $2.6 million has been allocated for Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) research focusing on Somali children, who exhibit higher rates and severity of ASD compared to other groups.

5. Welfare Fraud in Autism Services: Reports indicate parents have falsely diagnosed their healthy children with ASD to access Medicaid benefits, leading to ongoing federal investigations.

6. Nonprofit Initiatives:

• The Food Group of Minnesota received $2.2 million for agricultural education to assist underserved farmers.

• Nonprofit Isuroon has received funding to combat domestic violence and support Somali women.

7. Community Support Projects:

• The Minnesota State Horticultural Society obtained $339,902 to promote community gardening and assist low-income gardeners.

• Skyline Math and Science Academy received $125,000 aimed at decreasing drug use in the Somali community but was closed in 2025 due to low performance.

8. Researcher's Statement: Jennifer Hall-Lande, from the University of Minnesota, emphasized that her autism research data reflects official records and does not focus solely on the Somali community. She noted that her project does not investigate fraud, and the current allegations may not have a measurable impact on the autism prevalence rates documented.

The funding of $27 million for the Somali community in Minnesota reflects an effort to support cultural heritage and improve community welfare. However, the recent scandals surrounding welfare fraud, particularly in autism service claims, raise significant concerns about the integrity of these programs. Federal investigations are ongoing, highlighting the need for accountability and oversight in the distribution of these funds. 

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