Black Futures Month 2023 is one like no other. Our communities are being congratulated for our resiliency through the depths of pandemic hardship, without enough regard for all the ways we are being impacted to this day. There are still disproportionately high mortality rates due to flu, COVID, overdose and suicide. Meanwhile, the burden of inflation also weighs heavy - the expected increase in grocery costs for 2023 is $1,065. Rent costs across Canada are also set to rise by 5%. Across areas, we know Black communities continue being disproportionately impacted.
While BLMCA chapters are doing all they can to support neighbours from coast to coast to coast, collectively we know there is always more to be done. That’s why we are relaunching the Black Mutual Aid Fund: Inflation Support program. We have earmarked $66,150 to support individuals and families.
Between Feb. 10 - 21, our donation page was temporarily adjusted, with an option to donate directly toward the Inflation Support campaign. 100% of proceeds will be allocated directly toward the Inflation Support Fund for Black people in need.*
*Any carryover costs will be used to fill the community pantry at Wildseed Centre.
Who is eligible to apply?
Who is NOT eligible to apply?
When can I apply?
Applications will open on Wednesday, February 22, 2023 at 7PM ET (4PM PT, 5PM MT, 6PM CT, 8PM AT), and remain open until we reached the threshold of individual applications.
Will there be another round of funding?
We have not initiated plans for a future rounds of this program, but all updates on future offerings will be shared on our social media pages and our website.
How many times can I apply?
Individuals/families may only apply for the Inflation Support Fund once.
How many people will receive funds?
We will distribute all available funds to eligible applicants on a first-come-first-served, and continue distributing until we have emptied the Fund. As of now, Round 3 will support 185 Black individuals/families to start. This number may increase based on additional fundraising received between Feb. 10 - 21, 2023.
How much can I apply for?
For this round, one-time microgrants are available in the amount of $350.
For how long will this fund be open?
We plan accept applications open for as long as there were funds, and anticipated reaching our maximum fairly quickly. For your reference, the application for Round 2 remained open for 58 minutes.
How can I support the Black Inflation Support Fund?
We are so appreciative of everyone who has already donated to the Mutual Aid Fund. If you are still interested in supporting, please visit our donation page.
