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How to Support Your Community During Funding Uncertainty
With federal funding holds creating uncertainty for local businesses and essential services, many communities are feeling the impact. Small businesses, nonprofits, and public programs that rely on grants and federal assistance are facing delays, leaving them struggling to stay afloat.
By being intentional about where we shop, how we spend, and who we support, we can help strengthen the businesses and organizations that make our communities thrive. Here are some practical ways to make a difference during this challenging time.
1. Support Local & Independent Businesses
* Buy local whenever possible – Instead of big-box stores, shop at small businesses, independent bookstores, and local grocery stores. Vermonters are already great at that!
* Dine at local restaurants instead of chains or national delivery services. Many locally-owned places are struggling with delayed funding and economic uncertainty.
* Support local farmers & markets – If funding freezes impact agricultural subsidies, small farms might need extra support.
2. Donate to Nonprofits & Mutual Aid Funds
* Find local nonprofits in areas like food security, housing, healthcare, or legal aid, as these are often hit hardest by funding freezes.
* Contribute to mutual aid funds – These directly help individuals facing immediate needs, especially in communities affected by funding holds.
* Check GoFundMe & local crowdfunding pages – Many small businesses and nonprofits set up campaigns when they face funding issues.
3. Advocate & Stay Informed
* Contact your representatives – Ask about the specific funding holds affecting your state and push for action. Your state’s Attorney General might already be fighting back (like Vermont’s AG).
* Stay informed & spread the word – Share updates about funding freezes and how they affect your community. Many people don’t realize the local impact until it’s too late.
4. Invest in Ethical & Community-Focused Companies
* Bank with credit unions or community banks – These tend to reinvest in local economies rather than large corporate interests.
* Buy from B Corporations or cooperatives – These businesses prioritize social responsibility and community investment.
5. Volunteer or Offer Direct Help
* Offer your skills – If you have expertise in writing, fundraising, or organizing, local nonprofits might need extra support.
* Check in with local businesses – Some may need help navigating grants, emergency funds, or community initiatives.
As a Bonus:
Starting today, if you support your local community in any of the above ways, let me know, and I’ll send you a free reading; example below. Specifics aren’t required. This is based on the honor system. 💚 Send me your question, or feel free to ask for a general reading, and I’ll send your thank-you card reading. You can contact me here or on Instagram at WillowsEast.
Get full access to Willows East Society at willowseast.substack.com/subscribe
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By GretchenWith federal funding holds creating uncertainty for local businesses and essential services, many communities are feeling the impact. Small businesses, nonprofits, and public programs that rely on grants and federal assistance are facing delays, leaving them struggling to stay afloat.
By being intentional about where we shop, how we spend, and who we support, we can help strengthen the businesses and organizations that make our communities thrive. Here are some practical ways to make a difference during this challenging time.
1. Support Local & Independent Businesses
* Buy local whenever possible – Instead of big-box stores, shop at small businesses, independent bookstores, and local grocery stores. Vermonters are already great at that!
* Dine at local restaurants instead of chains or national delivery services. Many locally-owned places are struggling with delayed funding and economic uncertainty.
* Support local farmers & markets – If funding freezes impact agricultural subsidies, small farms might need extra support.
2. Donate to Nonprofits & Mutual Aid Funds
* Find local nonprofits in areas like food security, housing, healthcare, or legal aid, as these are often hit hardest by funding freezes.
* Contribute to mutual aid funds – These directly help individuals facing immediate needs, especially in communities affected by funding holds.
* Check GoFundMe & local crowdfunding pages – Many small businesses and nonprofits set up campaigns when they face funding issues.
3. Advocate & Stay Informed
* Contact your representatives – Ask about the specific funding holds affecting your state and push for action. Your state’s Attorney General might already be fighting back (like Vermont’s AG).
* Stay informed & spread the word – Share updates about funding freezes and how they affect your community. Many people don’t realize the local impact until it’s too late.
4. Invest in Ethical & Community-Focused Companies
* Bank with credit unions or community banks – These tend to reinvest in local economies rather than large corporate interests.
* Buy from B Corporations or cooperatives – These businesses prioritize social responsibility and community investment.
5. Volunteer or Offer Direct Help
* Offer your skills – If you have expertise in writing, fundraising, or organizing, local nonprofits might need extra support.
* Check in with local businesses – Some may need help navigating grants, emergency funds, or community initiatives.
As a Bonus:
Starting today, if you support your local community in any of the above ways, let me know, and I’ll send you a free reading; example below. Specifics aren’t required. This is based on the honor system. 💚 Send me your question, or feel free to ask for a general reading, and I’ll send your thank-you card reading. You can contact me here or on Instagram at WillowsEast.
Get full access to Willows East Society at willowseast.substack.com/subscribe