Today we’re officially announcing a U.S. COVID-19 response, in addition to the international responses we are planning. [1/7]
We didn’t take this decision lightly, but came to the view that we could (i) execute well and (ii) add value beyond the government response in a way that will complement our international work, which remains our priority. Here’s how we thought about it: [2/7]
First, cash is the right instrument. You won’t be surprised to hear that from us, but to recap a decade of evidence and experience: it is fast, efficient, effective, and can have multiplier effects on the economy. [3/7]
Second, the gov’t response will likely not be enough. We’re glad that the gov’t is considering direct cash payments, but even if it does as we hope, there may be delays and not enough money fast enough to the most vulnerable. [4/7]
Third, when we’ve responded selectively to domestic crises in the past, in particular to the 2017 hurricanes in Houston and Puerto Rico, we’ve seen positive results both in terms of immediate impact and awareness for direct giving. [5/7]
So, we’re sending the first batch of payments next week. In partnership with @FreshEBT, we’ll be signing up the poorest households enrolled in SNAP and living in the areas worst affected by COVID-19. Most recipients will be single mothers. Each will receive $1K. [6/7]
You can contribute here: donate.givedirectly.org/covid-19. We’ll be back with regular updates. [7/7]
