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Propel + GiveDirectly Project100 Partnership Q&A (2020)

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Please note this program is no longer active. This page describes our 2020 partnership. More about our 2024 Propel + GiveDirectly partnership is here.

Propel and GiveDirectly have teamed up to give $1000 cash transfers, no strings attached, to families in financial need to help make ends meet during the coronavirus crisis. The only way to register is to fill out an enrollment form if it appears inside Propel. Funds are limited, so not everyone will be able to receive a transfer. There is no way to apply to this program outside of the app.

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Can I sign up?

We are opening up this program to a limited number of Propel users, chosen at random in certain locations. If you are selected, you will see a link to a form in Propel. There is no way to sign up outside of filling out the form in Propel. Unfortunately, we are not able to respond to individual requests for cash transfers.

How do I know this is legitimate?

GiveDirectly is a non-profit that has 10 years of experience sending cash transfers to people in need all around the world. We partnered with GiveDirectly to get help to families during this difficult time. You can read more about the partnership here:

Here are some stories from people who have received a cash transfer: https://www.givedirectly.org/covid-19/us/recipient-stories/

I saw something about it in the app, but it went away. What do I do?

The only way to register for this program is by filling out the form in Propel. We only open the form for a short period of time as funds are available. As we raise more money, we may reopen the program. If that happens, the form will reappear inside of Propel.

How many people will get cash transfers?

We are giving cash to as many people as possible, limited only by the amount of donations we bring in. We expect to be able to send payments to tens of thousands of people. However, we will not be able to send payments to everyone who uses Propel or receives food stamps.

How do I get the money?

GiveDirectly provides a variety of ways to receive the payment, including a deposit into an existing bank account, a mailed prepaid card, MoneyGram, or PayPal. For those who receive payments, the goal is to transfer the money as quickly as possible.

I haven't been selected for a cash transfer yet, and I need money now. What can I do?

We're really sorry that our program can't serve everyone who is in need. Our team has put together a list of resources that covers many programs that may be able to help. You can also check out this site which lists cash support programs.

Do I have to pay the money back? Are there any strings attached?

No, recipients do not have to pay the money back and there are no strings attached. This is an emergency cash payment and there are no restrictions or tracking on how the money should be spent.

Who is Propel?

Propel is the company that builds Propel. Propel builds technology that helps people navigate safety net services like food stamps. The Propel app is totally free; Propel makes money when you click on partner content inside the app, like job postings or grocery coupons. Propel's headquarters are in Brooklyn, NY. Learn more about Propel at propel.app.

Who is GiveDirectly?

GiveDirectly is a nonprofit with 10 years of experience delivering over $150 million across six countries. In 2017, their team ran two disaster relief pilot programs in response to Hurricanes Harvey and Maria. Learn more about GiveDirectly at givedirectly.org, and learn more about their COVID-19 response at https://www.givedirectly.org/covid-19/us/.