Mutual Aid Networks

Mutual aid is neighbors helping neighbors as equals. Learn how to find or start a network in your community.

What Is Mutual Aid?

Mutual aid is reciprocal support among community members — not charity from above, but solidarity among equals. It's based on the understanding that we all have something to give and something we need.

Mutual Aid vs. Charity

Mutual Aid

  • • Horizontal relationships (equals helping equals)
  • • Addresses root causes alongside immediate needs
  • • Builds community power and relationships
  • • Everyone gives and receives
  • • Community-led and democratic

Traditional Charity

  • • Vertical relationships (givers and receivers)
  • • Focuses on symptoms, not causes
  • • Can create dependency
  • • Clear separation of roles
  • • Often institution-led

Find a Network Near You

Online Directories

  • • Mutual Aid Hub — Searchable directory by location
  • • Search "[your city] mutual aid" on social media
  • • Check Facebook groups for local networks

Ask Around

  • • Community centers and libraries
  • • Places of worship
  • • Local activist and advocacy groups
  • • Neighborhood associations

Types of Networks

  • • Geographic: Neighborhood or city-based
  • • Identity-based: Serving specific communities
  • • Issue-based: Food, housing, healthcare, etc.
  • • Crisis-response: Formed for specific emergencies

Starting a Mutual Aid Network

1

Start Small

Begin with a few neighbors or friends. You don't need a formal organization to help each other.

2

Survey Needs and Offers

Create a simple form asking what people need and what they can offer. This reveals your community's resources.

3

Set Up Communication

Create a group chat, email list, or simple website. Make it easy for people to request and offer help.

4

Match Needs with Resources

Connect people who need help with people who can provide it. This can be done informally or with coordinators.

5

Build Relationships

The goal isn't just transactions but community. Hold gatherings, check in on each other, build trust.

Common Mutual Aid Activities

Basic Needs

  • • Food distribution and community fridges
  • • Grocery shopping for those who can't
  • • Bill payment assistance
  • • Housing support and tenant organizing
  • • Childcare sharing

Services & Skills

  • • Transportation and rides
  • • Translation and interpretation
  • • Legal and tax help
  • • Tutoring and education
  • • Home repair and maintenance

Health & Wellness

  • • Medicine pickup and delivery
  • • Wellness checks on isolated neighbors
  • • Mental health peer support
  • • PPE and health supply distribution

Emergency Response

  • • Rapid response to ICE activity
  • • Disaster relief coordination
  • • Bail funds and legal support
  • • Accompaniment to appointments

Resources