Philanthropists are increasingly willing to support direct cash assistance. Foundations and individual donors have supported a range of emergency cash relief for various crises throughout the years, and the response to the COVID-19 pandemic in the greater Washington, DC, Maryland, and Virginia region has been no exception. Private philanthropy is also working with the current wave of government-sponsored cash assistance pilots. This virtual convening will highlight Urban’s findings on philanthropic support and will gather speakers to reflect on the implications and future of philanthropic efforts aimed at transferring cash directly to individuals. 

Speakers

Welcome Remarks

• Sarah Rosen Wartell, President, Urban Institute

Research Presentations

• Benjamin Soskis, Senior Research Associate, Center on Nonprofits and Philanthropy, Urban Institute
• Sonia Torres Rodríguez, Research Assistant, Metropolitan Housing and Communities Policy Center, Urban Institute 
• Fay Walker, Research Analyst, Metropolitan Housing and Communities Policy Center, Urban Institute

Panelists

• Mary Bogle, Principal Research Associate, Metropolitan Housing and Communities Policy Center, Urban Institute
• Kevin Callaghan, Newark Philanthropic Liaison, Council of New Jersey Grantmakers and Office of Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka
• Nisha G. Patel, Creative Catalyst, Powered by Shakti 
• Paula Sammons, Program Officer, W.K. Kellogg Foundation
• Tonia Wellons, Chief Executive Officer, Greater Washington Community Foundation
• Shena Ashley, Vice President, Nonprofits and Philanthropy, Urban Institute (moderator)

Materials

• Balancing Speed, Equity, and Impact during a Crisis
• Direct Cash Transfer as a Vehicle for Speed, Inclusivity, and Equity
• Greater DC Region Nonprofits Created Cash Transfer Programs to Support Workers Excluded from Federal Pandemic Assistance

Support for this event is provided by the Greater Washington Community Foundation. For more information on the Urban Institute’s funding principles, go to urban.org/fundingprinciples.

We strive to host inclusive, accessible events that enable all individuals, including individuals with disabilities, to engage fully. Please email [email protected] if you require any accommodations or have any questions about this event.

Photo Credit: Rido/Shutterstock