Cash Relief Program

Since 2020, SWOON has been giving out thousands of dollars each year to local sex workers in a tight spot.

WHO CAN RECEIVE FUNDS?

You are eligible for aid if you:

• reside or work in the Pittsburgh area
• are a sex worker (current or former) or trade sexual services for money, drugs, housing
• have a direct connection to the SWOON network 

HOW DO I GET APPROVED?

You must have a connection to our network. Here are some examples of connections to the SWOON network:

• you’ve attended a SWOON event
• you have a vouch from someone that SWOON is familiar with
• you have been referred by a local health or services organization

HOW MUCH FUNDING IS THERE?

Due to tax restrictions, individuals can receive funds ($150) once every 3 months. Unfortunately, sometimes we receive more applications than we can afford, so grants are not guaranteed.

Apply for funds

You can apply every 3 months. We usually give $150 within 5 days of receiving an application. Payment is usually through Venmo or Cashapp. Sometimes we’re also able to deliver Visa giftcards. Please be patient– this is not an emergency fund. It is volunteer-run.

Refer someone for funding

If you know someone who you think could benefit from this program, please refer them here! Referrals help us verify applicants more quickly and safely.  

Donate to the fund

We’re scrappy, so the vast majority of our revenue goes to the mutual aid fund. All of it comes from direct donations.