Federal cuts and donor retreat are forcing more nonprofits to compete for the same pot of money. For nonprofits already operating on very slim margins and lean teams, the current climate is causing financial fatigue. Tough times call for creative measures. “We are looking for ways to collaborate with other nonprofits when it comes to seeking grant funds,” said Tonia Wright, founder and CEO of Altruism, Inc.

“If there was ever a time to seek alignment with other organizations, this is the time. We can benefit from each other’s strengths and leverage those assets to move our collective missions forward.”

Although in the works for some time, Altruism is meeting the moment by launching an online store that offers birth equity messaging on T-shirts, coffee mugs, and hardbound notebooks. The store is expected to bring incremental, passive revenue at a time when every little bit helps. Altruism provides doula services to pregnant women and birthing people at its two Maternal and Infant Health (MaIH) Centers. Because services are provided at no charge, Wright said the store will support efforts to keep services free.

“We are uniquely positioned to create beautifully designed merchandise with hard-hitting messages aimed at spreading awareness about birth equity,” Wright said. “The hope is these items will become conversation starters and bridge builders as we continue to strive for systems change in maternal health — especially as it relates to Black women and birthing people. We’re starting with a select number of items but will continue to add more pieces in the coming months.”

Altruism, a fairly young nonprofit, is not new to pivoting when the moment calls for it. In its early stages, it transitioned from a media nonprofit to one focusing on maternal health. “Sustainability for us means tapping into our many strengths to diversify how we raise funds,” Wright said. “Things feel a bit unsettling, but we are not shaken. We know how to make a dollar out of 15 cents.”

Learn more about Altruism, Inc. and check out their online store.