Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

 

FAQs: Applicants

 

What is a microgrant?

A microgrant is a small sum of money distributed for the purpose of creating a sustainability.

What is a mutual aid network?

A mutual-aid network is a grassroots cooperative that aims to achieve a common goal by filling in systemic gaps and building a collaborative economy that works for everyone. The network must name a qualified 501(c)(3) organization as the recipient of an approved grant.

What is considered a vulnerable community?

A vulnerable community includes the economically disadvantaged, racial and ethnic minorities, the uninsured, low-income children, the elderly, the houseless, those with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and those with other chronic health conditions, including severe mental illness, disabled people, immigrant communities, and those who have been severely affected by COVID-19.

Who can apply?

Grassroots organizations and mutual aid networks working directly with vulnerable communities disproportionately impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Only US-based public charities, with a current IRS 501(c)(3) determination, or those operating under a fiscal sponsor 501(c)(3), may apply. Funding is not implied or guaranteed with any application. This grant’s initiative does not accept applications from:

  • Individuals

  • Religious institutions or fraternal organizations

  • Special events

  • Organizations not holding a 501(c)(3) IRS determination

  • Organizations based outside the US

Please take our eligibility quiz here.

How do I apply?

Please click here for the application.

How much can I apply for?

Grant amounts may range from $500 to $5,000. Grants do not typically exceed $5,000, and are restricted to the identified need(s).

What is the criteria for who gets awarded a grant?

We have assembled a committee of individuals from various industries to review the applications, and each grant awarded will be at the discretion of the Social Impact Fund. Each application will be evaluated based on urgency and need.

Below is a list of programs/services that the #YouAreEssential fund consider as critical and urgent needs, and assistance would be distributed by the applying organization:

  • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

  • Housing/Rent/Utilities

  • Food/Groceries/Personal hygiene supplies

  • Personal Automobile/Travel

  • Medical/Dental bills (cannot cover outstanding balances)

  • Childcare

  • Legal expenses related to safety and well-being

  • Textbooks and other instructional expenses

  • Technology and connectivity needs related to distance learning

  • Other emergency or unforeseen circumstances

The #YouAreEssential fund will not grant the following items:

  • Parking Tickets/Fines

  • Taxes

What is the timeline?

Applications are due and reviewed on a rolling basis. Due to a high volume of applications, please allow for a 5-10 business day response time.

If I’ve already received a #YouAreEssential grant, can I apply again?

In an effort to provide support to as many unique organizations, or mutual aid networks as possible, the #YouAreEssential grant will not allow multiple grants to the same recipients.

If I’ve already received other emergency COVID-19 funding, can I still qualify for the #YouAreEssential grant?

Yes, organizations and mutual aid networks who have received funding elsewhere are still qualified for a #YouAreEssential grant.

If I get awarded a #YouAreEssential grant, what are my responsibilities as a grantee?

As a grantee, you may be asked to submit a video or photo showing how you have utilized the grant. Your photo or video may be posted on our social media and website.

If I get selected for a #YouAreEssential grant, when will I receive the grant?

If you are selected for a grant, you will be notified by the Social Impact Fund, and grant payments will be made as soon as possible after approval, usually within 7-10 business days.

How do I receive the #YouAreEssential grant?

Grants are awarded by check or electronic transfer (ACH only), payable to the approved 501(c)(3) organization. Grantees will be sent a form to collect this information.

Who can I reach out to for additional questions?

For additional questions or inquiries, please reach out to us via email at contact@youareessential.org.

FAQs: Donors

 

How do I donate to the #YouAreEssential fund?

Please donate by going to www.youareessential.org/donate.

How much of my donation does an organization or mutual aid network receive?

All donations will be included in the total amount raised for the #YouAreEssential fund. As each applicant/grantee will have varied requests and needs, the amount granted will be based on our funding scale of: $500, $1,000, $2,500, and $5,000.

100% of your donations will go towards the #YouAreEssential fund and are tax-deductible.

Can I specify which organization, or mutual aid network I would like my donation to go towards?

No, all donations toward the #YouAreEssential fund will be included in the total amount raised and will be distributed to #YouAreEssential grantees.

If I donate to the #YouAreEssential fund, what are my next steps?

As a donor, we would love to show our appreciation and gratitude by posting a thank you note online using your photo, video, statement, or your name. You may also choose to be recognized as an anonymous donor.