Black History Month Community Spotlight: Mahala House

This week, I am beyond honored to share an amazing organization, Mahala House, that was founded by my two dear friends Camira and Carmin Powell who were inspired by the their own mother Sis. Paula L. Powell, and their ancestral lineage to Mahala.

Mahala House aims to provide untraditional resources for those in unexpected circumstances. Our mission is to uplift caregivers as personally worthy of receiving all of the support, care, and consideration that they impart to their own loved ones.

To do so, they have launched the pilot Moms-in-the-Middle Grant Program which provides no-strings-attached direct funds to single mothers that identify as BIPOC residing in Santa Cruz County. These grants are meant to help with unavoidable and unexpected expenses that can cause immense financial stress. Eligible recipients will receive one-time $300 cash cards. You can learn more about the program and eligibility requirements here.

This program can be absolutely life changing for families. As several grantees shared :

"It helped relieve the stress I was feeling about not being able to buy my kid the gift he deserves"

- 27-year-old single mother

"It was helpful during a time I needed something. Always thankful for whatever anyone can help out with"

- 28-year-old single mother

"Our funds were used to pay bills. Although not much, I was able to put a little towards a few of my bills in December so it made a difference."

- 38-year-old single mother

We are so honored to amplify the incredible work of Mahala House in supporting BIPOC women and families in Santa Cruz county. Please feel free to share their work and we’ll continue to highlight their amazing programs in the coming months!