Bartenders Benevolent Fund

Provides financial assistance to hospitality professionals who have fallen under serious financial hardship. The Emergency Relief Fund supports individuals in covering the cost of essential needs such as rent, utilities, childcare, or medical bills, including mental health support, to a maximum of $500 per month. Open to all who can demonstrate they held a position within a licensed establishment in the previous three months; that place of employment must have a valid license to serve wine, beer, or spirits. Proof of employment and a valid SIN are required. An application form is available online. Applications are judged using a points system and reviewed by a panel of industry professionals that take into account factors such as urgency of need; see website for details. The Food Insecurity Fund provides $50 digital food vouchers to qualifying applicants at a variety of grocery retailers, to a maximum of one award per month. Applicants must have held a position within a licensed establishment for at least six months prior to shutdowns brought on by COVID-19 on March 16th, 2020, and must reside in Canada. Proof of employment is required. Assistance is given on a first-come, first-served basis to applicants that meet the eligibility requirements. An application form is available online. Also offers the Black Indigenous and People of Colour (BIPOC) WSET Level 1 Scholarship for BIPOC people who are interested in building a career in wine, spirits, or hospitality. WSET Level 1 is a beginner level course that provides an introduction to wine or spirits. Serves Canada. Nonprofit society.