Need Help?

The Chicago Theater Bike Ride provides small monetary grants to Chicago artists facing financial crises caused by emergency circumstances. Our mission is to provide support to members of the Chicago arts community who are struggling after a medical emergency, illness, death or other catastrophic loss that has impacted them financially. The process is easy and direct and we provide assistance as quickly as possible after review.

If you or someone you know needs help, fill out a request for assistance today. If you're wondering if you qualify for assistance, check out the FAQ below. 
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All requests are confidential and will not be shared publicly.

Frequently Asked Questions
We've got answers to some common questions ... 
​WHAT TYPE OF REQUESTS DO YOU FUND?
​Some examples of things we have funded: emergency surgery bills; hospice and end of life expenses; travel to treatment or medical appointments; respite care; funeral costs in the event of the sudden loss of a family member (including emergency travel assistance); house or apartment fire relief; health or disability-related housing insecurity.

Our mission does not allow us to fund ongoing support like regular rental assistance, unemployment supplements, or help with things that do not qualify as emergency aid. Please consider if your need constitutes an emergency caused by an unforeseen event.
​ARE THERE ANY OTHER STEPS TO THE APPLICATION PROCESS?
​No. The Request for Assistance form is the only thing you need to fill out. If we have any follow-up questions, we’ll contact you.
​​​HOW SOON WILL I RECEIVE AN ANSWER ABOUT MY GRANT APPLICATION?
We try to review applications and respond as quickly as possible (one way or another) typically within a few days. A check will be mailed directly upon approval of a request.
I have a friend in the Chicago Theater community who needs assistance. Can I Make a request on their behalf?
Yes! There is a referral grant box you can check in the request form. Once we have reviewed the need request, we may need your assistance communicating with the grantee.
WHAT IS YOUR CONFIDENTIALITY POLICY?
​All requests for assistance are strictly confidential. 
​I NEED NEW HEADSHOTS BUT CAN’T AFFORD THEM RIGHT NOW. SHOULD I ASK FOR ASSISTANCE?
No. The Chicago Theater Bike Ride grants emergency assistance to community members during an unforeseen catastrophic event. 

The Chicago Theater Bike Ride acknowledges the generous support of Wintrust Bank Chicago.