Who is eligible for a grant from the Rapid Response Fund?

The Rapid Response Fund will provide emergency financial relief to students, immigrants, and workers who are being left behind by the government’s response. To demonstrate eligibility for a grant, students, for example, will need to provide a copy of their transcript and financial need. Workers, artists, and small business owners who have lost work or hours need to show their 1099s or other proof of alternative work arrangements. Specific requirements will vary depending on the program, but in every case MAF’s COVID-19 Resources Finder will help applicants determine what benefits are available to them.

How much do applicants receive?

MAF’s Rapid Response Fund provides $500 direct grants to students, low income, and immigrant households who are otherwiseineligible for government support. All grants are unrestricted in order to help people cover whatever is most pressing in their lives. The Fund also provides zero interest bridge loans of $2,500 for small business owners. All applicants apply through MAF’s Coronavirus Resources Finder –an application that pulls together the resources that are available for each applicant, including federal, state, and local programs. The application outlines 3-4 eligible programs or support for each applicant, including –where applicable –MAF cash grants and bridge loans, like MAF’s Rapid Response Fund.

How quickly will funds be disbursed?

We understand that timing is critical: once an application is received and approved, funds will be deposited directly into grantee and borrower accounts to minimize delays and hardships. Estimated time of disbursement is 72 hours from application approval.

Where does my money go?

One hundred percent of contributions to MAF’s Rapid Response Fund goes directly to the people who need itmost. Our number one priority is helping people who are affected by the crisis but don’t have anywhere else to turn. We’ll conduct separate fundraising to cover our organization’s costs.