You Can Help Support The Black Lives Matter Movement And Frontline Protestors With Food
There is no shortage of ways to support and uplift the Black Lives Matter movement—no matter your circumstances. In addition to donating to large organizations, you can show immediate support and give aid to everyone in your community fighting for equity in America. Often, the opportunities will vary by your area; here are a handful of ideas that can help those sparking change.
Bring Food To Protestor Supply Drop-offs
Protestors are in need of supplies like personal protective equipment, first aid kits, food, water, and more. You can search for drop-offs in your area, contact local organizers to see if they're holding any, and see what they need most. Here are some examples from Minneapolis and New York. Many mutual aid funds are focused on getting supplies to protestors, so you can find a list of funds from across the U.S. here, too.
If you're near a protest route, don't underestimate simply grabbing a cooler, putting out a sign, and offering things like snacks and water bottles to protestors passing by. Remember to continue to respect social distancing measures when possible and wear your mask.
Support Food Banks
Food banks have already been hit hard by coronavirus, and they still badly need our support, especially now as some cities are seeing damage following protests. You can find a list of food banks near you on Feeding America. If you can't get there in person, you can send monetary donations to food banks in places like Minneapolis, MN, and beyond.
Buy from Local Restaurants Supporting The Cause
In addition to national brands, many local restaurants and bars are aiding the movement by donating food to protestors and donating profits to local causes. This comes even as many have been hard affecting by slow or halted business during the COVID-19 pandemic. You can likely find a participating restaurant by searching the social feeds of nearby spots and searching local publications, but you can also support restaurants like these in Atlanta, these in San Fransisco, and these across the country mentioned in The New York Times.
Support Black-Owned Restaurants
Seek out the black-owned restaurants in your area when you eat out or order in. While you do so, tip-heavily, leave a great review, buy gift cards, and tell your friends. We put together some tips for finding black-owned restaurants in your area.
Donate to Justice For David McAtee
This GoFundMe was established for the family of David McAtee, a beloved BBQ owner in Louisville, KY, who was killed by law enforcement earlier this week. You can donate here.
Offer to buy a meal for someone you know
Maybe you have a valid reason for not protesting in person, especially during the coronavirus pandemic, but you likely know someone who is. If you feel comfortable, offering to buy them dinner or sending them a few dollars to buy a coffee is a great way to support them. You could also make them a home cooked meal, but be sure to practice social distancing if you drop it off. Other great ways to support include childcare, offering to be their emergency contact, and just letting them vent.
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