How the Fund Works

Fund Eligibility: The Fund is currently prioritizing East Boston residents and dependents who have lost income due to detainment or other immigration enforcement actions and who are locked out of other resources. If funding allows, we will revisit these eligibility criteria. 

Application Process - There will be two primary pathways for referrals to the Fund. 

Partner Referrals - These are applications coming in from specific, named partner organizations that have been previously approved by the Fund board. Approved partnering organizations are working directly with people who have lost wages due to detainment or deportation. The Fund will prioritize aid to directly affected individuals who are referred by approved partners.

If you are a representative of a community-based or faith-based organization serving East Boston affected residents and want to partner with the Fund, please submit a contact form or email us directly.

General referrals - The second pathway for referrals is by application through the general public or by self-referral. The Fund accepts and reviews applications submitted directly by or on behalf of individuals through our application form.

Application Process: We ask applicants to complete a short, confidential form. Everyone who applies will receive written confirmation that the application form has been submitted. The Board reviews applications monthly and will inform applicants in writing when distribution decisions have been made.

Verification: We use a trust-based system that prioritizes relationships, with review and recommendations from community partners.

Funding Awards: Standard funding amounts are $250-$500 one-time awards for immediate needs. Distributions are made monthly with the first round distributed in February 2026.

Questions? ¿Preguntas? Contact us/Contáctanos: Eastbostoncrisisresponsefund@gmail.com