The Purpose
The Vermont Professionals of Color Network (VT PoC) is dedicated to supporting the success of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC), also known as the Global Majority, through networking, education, and advocacy.
We have established this inaugural relief fund to support BIPOC small businesses and community members affected by the 2023 and 2024 Vermont floods. This fund will remain an integral component of our network.
To learn more about donating to the fund or accessing its resources, please see the information provided below.
photo credit: Weiwei Wang, Executive Co-Director of VT PoC
Donating to the Fund
How will the funds be used?
At this time, BIPOC small business owners and community members who have been impacted by the 2023 and 2024 VT Floods will receive funds. Funds should be directed to damages as a result of storm and flooding losses that have not already been funded, or will be funded, through other grant or general funding sources. Applicants who have received funding before are welcome to reapply.
How Can I Donate?
Online Portal
If you’re interested in contributing monetarily, please donate via our GiveButter portal.
Check or Money Order
If you are interested in contributing monetarily via check, please use the following address:
Vermont Professionals of Color Network
P.O. Box 4277, Burlington, VT 05406
Applying to the fund
*Application is Currently Closed*
Who should apply?
This fund is available to small business owners and community members who identify as Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC), also known as People of the Global Majority. Applicants who have received funding before are welcome to reapply.
We consider small business owners to be:
- Entrepreneurs
- Owners of a micro-business
- Owners of brick and mortars
- Individuals with both formal / legally and informally established businesses
- Individuals with side hustles
We consider community members to be:
- BIPOC individuals living in Vermont, whether born within or outside of the United States, with special attention to those in impacted areas.
How to apply?
Potential applicants will need to meet with Airon Shaw, VT PoC Community Support Coordinator, to determine eligibility and next steps.
If eligible, applicants will need the following information to complete the BIPOC Relief Fund application:
- Full Legal Name
- Address, Phone Number, Email
- Electronic W9
- Business Name (if applicable)
- Narrative: What are your greatest needs following 2023 VT Flood?
- Narrative: How will funds be used?
*Please Note: funding received from VT PoC (such as community support, flood relief, listening sessions) totaling over $400.00 will be subject to federal taxes.
When will funds be distributed?
Applications are considered on a rolling basis and will continue until funds run out.⠀
Additional Resources for Flood Recovery ↗
VT PoC has created a page of additional resources for 2023 and 2024 VT Flood Response & Recovery. If resources are missing, please contact thefam@vtpoc.net.
