Set up by the Baltimore Community Foundation a day after the burning and looting, "The Fund for Re-Building Baltimore" is hearing from Crabtown boosters across the country. Checks are accompanied by stories and notes of encouragement. “My daughters friends had a lemonade stand to help with the rebuilding of Baltimore’s affected neighborhoods. They were very excited to make this donation,” said one.
Maybe there’s something to be said for the national TV coverage. "Stay safe Baltimore – prayers from Chicago," offered another.
Many sent their gifts in honor of Freddie Gray, the 25-year-old man whose voice box and spine were damaged and who died in police custody. Said one:“In honor of Freddie Gray and the black community of Baltimore. No one deserves to spend their life in fear.”
Many wanted their money spent to help children. "I have no children," read one of those notes. "Thank you for raising yours to be strong and good and kind. For the mothers in Sandtown-Winchester," where Freddie Gray lived.
City foundations and art institutions are also stepping up: The Weinberg Foundation gave $27,000 to Vehicles for Change. The money will support rehabbing of 10 cars for families who need transportation to find and keep a job. The Maryland Film Festival provided a forum for discussion of a civil rights movie and a discussion of where Baltimore and the nation go from here.
Center Stage did an on-the-street rendition of its current musical about Bob Marley. The Baltimore Symphony offered two free outdoor concerts. The drug store chain CVS gave $100,000 for rebuilding. And , finally, a rallying cry for the work to be done: "B'more Strong."