Support the remarkable individuals at WSW

Like many of your favorite small businesses, West Side Wellness is closing temporarily for the greater good, because of the COVID-19 pandemic. And like many healers, WSW's massage therapists are independent contractors working on commission –– it's the industry standard, and most prefer the independence of this arrangement. So, when there's no clients, there's no pay, and some of our staff may not have a safety net for times like these. Self employed folks aren't eligible for unemployment benefits.

I'm doing my best to look for aid and support for WSW and our workers. They're some of the most caring, empathetic, good-willed people I know, and they're the reason WSW exists. To avoid feeling helpless, I created this fundraiser in the hopes that they, and by extension, WSW, can weather this storm.

We've closed for one week; probably more. The fundraising goal will be adjusted if we stay closed longer. We don't yet know what assistance might come from the government, or how much of it will be available to our contractors, or even to me as a sole proprietor. Meanwhile, our workers have lost their source of income for now.

As with tips, the ask is that those who are able to contribute please do so, and hopefully the burden for those of us in more vulnerable circumstances will be less to bear. We thank you for your thoughtful consideration of support in this time of great need. We're in this together.

On our end, we'll be creating and providing online content  to boost spirits. And we'll be signal boosting community organizations supporting folks in need.

Proceeds from this fund will be equitably distributed amongst the West Side Wellness massage therapists as individuals. If you'd like to help out the business too, consider buying a West Side Wellness e-gift card  for a friend, or pre-paying  for some sessions for yourself. 

Thank you.