Project snapshot
Although the impact of COVID on Chinatown businesses has lessened, there are many small businesses that are still struggling, and many community members who remain food insecure – Gift-a-Meal helps address both of these pressing issues, and also builds a community of mutual aid that supports each other. For example, 47 Division, a butcher shop in Chinatown, was saved from eviction after SCL helped organize a fundraiser and raised money from the community, and is still part of the community today. 47 Division has given food and produce back to neighborhood folks through GAM. Since many businesses often won’t accept direct donations (due to pride or other reasons) but will accept support in the form of business revenue, this double-impact project creates a sustainable ecosystem of businesses and community members supporting each other.
We have a core team that runs our GAM program, and a strong base of volunteers that assists with meal distribution. We additionally have an active social media presence, including Instagram and Tiktok, and also leverage PR channels such as media publications and partnerships to increase visibility and promote education on issues impacting merchants.
This strengthens relationships among community members and project participants by building bridges between different groups: older and younger generations, people familiar with Chinatown and people looking to get more involved in the community, and more.
After the grant period, Send Chinatown Love will continue our grassroots fundraising efforts to raise funds through small individual donors, corporate sponsors, and other grants or foundations.
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