Rapid Response Fund 2022

Building Power on the Front Lines

We are in the third year of living in the reality of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the material consequences continue to unfold for many people in the Bay Area and beyond. The financial hit that families have taken and ongoing uncertainty of daily staples in our routines — work and school, social, civic and cultural activities — reverberate while trying to reclaim stability. Yet with these challenges, organizers and leaders continue to find windows of opportunity for change and expanding solidarity to strengthen our communities.

Since its inception in 2016, the Rapid Response Fund has provided more than $3 million in funding to strengthen the voice and power of people of color and residents living on low incomes to be heard and direct the decision making that affects their lives. Whether our communities are under attack, or when there is a pivotal moment to push through for change, these organizations tap resources to mobilize and respond with the community voice at the center.

Building power is rooted in supporting people. The people leading on the frontlines have held double and triple duty at work, and by the nature of organizing come from the communities most harmed by unjust systems. Looking forward, we’re exploring how rapid response is not only supporting actions and responses but also supporting the wellbeing of organizers who’ve been burning the wick at both ends.

We’ll continue supporting the people and movement-building power, voice, and solidarity. Thank you for making this possible.

Judith Bell
Chief Impact Officer

Rapid Response Fund Grant Spotlights

About the Rapid Response Fund

The Rapid Response Fund for Movement Building provides quick-turnaround funds to frontline social justice organizations that are strengthening the voice and power of low-income residents and people of color. The fund offers grassroots organizations small, one-time grants within 30 days of receiving a funding request.

To support the Rapid Response Fund, please visit sff.org/give.