More than ever before, our neighbors are facing economic hardship. In our first month of re-opening the Renter Support Fund (RSF) in 2025, we received over 1,100 applications, far exceeding our capacity to assist more than a few applicants each month. This number is only expected to grow. When the weight of the world feels unbearable, love is the way forward.
Our Powderhorn Park neighborhood is made more vibrant by the diverse and resilient members of our community. Love is what grounds us to the people and causes that truly matter. Showing up for someone in crisis is an act of love. Please consider giving back to our community as a way to support our neighbors in dire need. Previous donations were able to help our RSF recipients in the following ways:
The Renter Support Fund has provided relief to over 600 cost burdened families by providing low-barrier direct to tenant cash assistance since its launch in 2019. Sustained through grassroots means of invested independent donors and partnered local organizations, the program demonstrates the power of community-driven solutions in addressing housing insecurity.
Your donation makes a direct impact on the lives of marginalized renters in Minneapolis who are struggling to survive. In our RSF 2023 Annual Report, the majority of our applicants identified as African American / Black, 45% of whom identified as disabled; and 29% had previously experienced homelessness. A quarter of our surveyed group also identified as trans or LGBTQIA+. Your support will ensure that the most vulnerable members of our community are receiving the support they need.
The Problem
In 2023, applications increased by 33%. In 2024, applications almost doubled by 63%. The demand for assistance is higher than ever, however our funding continues to dwindle. In 2023, our funding fell by 50% and we had to make the difficult decision to cut the amount of aid from $900 to $600. As of now, due to limited funding, that number is now down to $450 so that we can try to help the most people possible meet their needs.
Renter Support Fund recipients have full autonomy over how they use their funds, with no reporting or restrictions. Grounded in the practice of mutual aid, donating to the RSF is a direct and tangible way for you to make a difference in the lives of those who are struggling.
For the Renter Support Fund to stay open, it needs ample and sustainable funding.
The Ask | Quarterly RSF Fundraiser
Starting this month, and each fiscal quarter, we are asking you to show up for community by signing up to be a $15/month recurring donor.
For this month, our goal is to have 10 sustaining donors who give at least $15/month. While one time donations still make a difference, we need recurring donors to keep this low-barrier cash assistance fund open. $15: That’s the price of a cup of coffee and a breakfast sandwich from your favorite cafe. That $15 will keep someone from being evicted, and help families put food on the table.
As a thank you for becoming a recurring donor of the Renter Support Fund, recurring donors will be automatically entered into a raffle with the chance to win exclusive prizes from local businesses, kicking off strong this quarter. Michelle Vidovic, owner of Powderhorn Coworking, has offered one month of free access to their shared office space! The lucky winner will enjoy free Wi-Fi, coffee, printing, and more! ($230 value!)
Everyone deserves to have their basic needs met. Together, we can build a more equitable future founded in love and community by coming together to support each other; one donation at a time.