Neighbors Help Neighbors in Need As September Rent Comes Due
| Forward Together New Orleans, a non-profit organization created by Mayor LaToya Cantrell to support New Orleans has, as of Aug. 26, collected more than $170,000 in donations for New Orleanians who need rental assistance, with a single $100,000 donation given by a private donor and more than $70,000 from small dollar donations through ftno.org/rent or by mail. while $100,000 was given by a private donor. “We lift each other up in New Orleans, just as we always have when crisis strikes. That’s what our people do,” says Mayor Cantrell. “I wish this generosity weren’t necessary and I hope that the federal government will step up to support cities. But until then, we will stand together to help keep our residents in their homes.” Residents who received assistance from the fund are thankful. Linda T. was driving for Uber before COVID, and then fell behind on bills when she wasn’t able to work. “We are in hurricane season and in the midst of a pandemic. Some of us have to move or worse,” says Linda T. “I’ve seen some hard times these past few months. I’m so grateful to our city’s residents who opened their pocketbooks to help despite the challenges they also face. This is what community is about– neighbors helping neighbors. We shouldn’t be in this situation, and it’s through no fault of our own, but together we will come out stronger.” Given that the needs far outpace available resources at the local level, the Fund is calling on every New Orleanian who is able, to contribute and help a neighbor out. Assistance to tenants is limited to households facing imminent eviction. Families with children, the elderly and people with disabilities are prioritized. Donations are being accepted at ftno.org where you can find more information on the Mayor’s Fund, Forward Together New Orleans, a 501c(3). |
