New Britain Racial Justice Coalition Planning Summer Mutual Aid Program, Seeking Donations

The New Britain Racial Justice Coalition is working to reach out to and empower people in neighborhoods with its Summer Mutual Aid Program, and is presently seeking donations to support the effort.

The Coalition held the Mutual Aid events last summer. The Coalition says that, “Every summer, NBRJC proudly supports over 100 families in New Britain through our Mutual Aid Program. We engage directly with residents to understand their core needs, and our community steps up to respond!”

Answering, “What is Mutual Aid?” the Coalition says that,

Mutual aid:

1) Addresses both the basic survival needs while building underscoring of the systemic nature of economic inequity.
2) Operates as a tool for mobilization towards building solidarity around movements for systemic, social & political transformation.
3) Rooted in direct participation and collective action.

These three aspects differentiate mutual aid from traditional notions of charity. We see charity as a form of giving that does not challenge, and often re-enforces economic inequality in our society.

Donations needed, the Coalition says, include,

Hygiene Products

• Shampoo/Conditioner
• Deodorant ( Mens/Womens)
• Soap/Body Wash
• Toothbrushes
• Toothpaste
• Menstrual Products
• Toilet Paper

Baby Products

• Formula
• Diapers
• Baby wipes

“If you can contribute and help your neighbors, please email nbracialjustice@gmail.com or send us a PM. Let’s make a difference together,” the Coalition says. Its Facebook page is at facebook.com/nbrjc.