Call To Action
Donate some (or all) of your stimulus check to organizations (food banks, shelters, rent and utility funds, etc.) that help those hit most severely by the pandemic.
We believe that America needs fundamental systemic change to address the inequities, injustices and problems of American life. But systemic change is a long-term struggle and in the meantime millions of Americans are hungry, cold, and at risk of eviction. They need help now and they need it from us, not just from wealthy philanthropists.
The second round of stimulus checks are being distributed starting this week but will provide only minimal relief to the 6 in 10 Americans who are suffering financial setbacks due to the pandemic. And the nonprofits and other organizations that serve as safety nets are themselves stretched beyond their means.
Do some research to find the communities nearest you that are in the greatest need of additional support. Prioritize organizations that serve your most vulnerable neighbors: the homeless, those who are food insecure, immigrants, those in detention facilities, people with disabilities, older adults, People of Color, Indigenous populations, and LGBTQ+ communities. Do what you can with a donation and fight like hell for the structural changes that can make long lasting difference.
We think it would be best to focus your giving on local needs and groups that you already have knowledge of or a commitment to. But if your usual charities are well set or you want to reach out to new people, these national organizations have extensive lists of groups and projects that are working to address the crisis.
CERF+ Helping artists survive the pandemic