Berkeley Needs Your Help: Donate to the Berkeley Relief Fund

Dear friend,

Thanks to the generous support of Berkeley residents, last March we were able to raise $1.3 million for the Berkeley Relief Fund. These funds were distributed in April to support local small businesses, arts organizations, and tenants who are struggling to make ends meet as a result of the economic decline caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, in the time since the first round of funding, it is clear that further support is needed to help those who have become financially impacted, especially as COVID-19 continues to worsen and restrictions tighten during what is typically the busiest shopping period of the year.

We are relaunching the Berkeley Relief Fund, but this will only be successful with your help. During this season of giving, consider supporting our local community by donating to the Berkeley Relief Fund. Our goal is to raise an additional $1.7 million by the end of the month. These funds will be used by small businesses, many of them owned by women and/or people of color, to keep their businesses operating by paying wages, rent, and other operational expenses. Grants will also be provided to tenants who have been financially impacted as a result of COVID-19.

There is hope around the corner, with the distribution of vaccines to begin later this month. However, too many people need help now and cannot wait for the pandemic to end. Consider donating today to the Berkeley Relief Fund to support your fellow Berkeley neighbors. Your support will make a difference.