TCDSA’s Ezra Ishman Solidarity Fund opened for requests at the end of January. Over the four days the fund was open, TCDSA’s announcement was shared through organizing networks and among families and friends in need. We received 68 requests from at least 24 different ZIP codes across the Twin Cities metro area. We distributed a total of $10,385.00 to 52 people, typically as $200.00 grants delivered through payment apps, check, or cash in person, with a few outstanding requests left which we hope to fulfill soon. We intend to re-open in a few months after fundraising to replenish the fund’s balance.
It was an intense but fulfilling week for the members of the Solidarity Fund working group: Jia M, Karl H, Matt M, Miquel M, and Tyler G. A special thanks to our chapter treasurer Tim H, as this would not have been possible without his hard work and diligence.
As we look to reopen for another cycle, we’ve started to think about how the Solidarity Fund could connect to other TCDSA projects, and how to build sustainable cash redistribution programs both within DSA and more broadly. If you’re interested in supporting these projects or have any feedback, join us in the Slack #solidarityfund channel or reach out to a working group member. And as always, you can donate to the fund here.
by Matt M