In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, Governor JB Pritzker has ordered the closing of all bars and restaurants for dine-in business at least through the end of April. This is a necessary action to stem to transmission of the virus, but it has sidelined servers, bartenders, DJs, drag queens, and many others who earn their livings in Chicago's LGBTQ nightlife scene.
Many online fundraising attempts have been arranged to help support the bars' staffs. Below is a list of links to online fundraisers for many of the local bars and parties. Windy City Times encourages you to show your support in this time of hardship. If you are aware of any additional efforts for any bar not listed, please email Kirk Williamson at kirk@windycitymediagroup.com .
Sidetrack Staff Support Effort
Website Link Here .
Help Support The Glenwood Bartenders Fundraiser
Website Link Here .
Virtual Tip Jar for Scarlet Bar
Website Link Here .
Bobby Loves Staff Virtual Tip Jar
Website Link Here .
Hydrate Nightclub and Elixir Lounge Tip Jar
Website Link Here .
Relief Fund for Berlin Employees
Website Link Here .
2Bears Tavern Group ( Jackhammer/The Sofo Tap/Meeting House Tavern ) Staff Assistance Fund
Website Link Here .
The North End Team ( Family )
Website Link Here .
ProgressBar Staff Relief Fund
Website Link Here .
Support the team that serves you at Touche
Website Link Here .
Atmosphere Bar Staff Relief Fund
Website Link Here .
Lucky Horseshoe Lounge Staff Relief Fund
Website Link Here .
The Call Bar-Home Bar of Andersonville
Website Link Here .
D.S. Tequila Staff Relief Fund
Website Link Here .
Drew's on Halsted Employees
Website Link Here .
The Closet's Virtual Tip Jar
Website Link Here .
Assistance for Cell Block Chicago
Website Link Here .
Hamburger Mary's Staff Support Fund
Website Link Here .
The Baton Show Lounge Staff Tip Jar
Website Link Here .
Support the Replay & Elixir Andersonville Staff
Website Link Here .
Fantasy Night Club Employee Relief Fund
Website Link Here .
Shaker's on Clark Staff Virtual Tip Jar
Website Link Here .
Krave Staff Relief Fund
Website Link Here .
Second Story Bar relief fund
Website Link Here .
Kit Kat Lounge Staff Relief Fund
Website Link Here .
Queen Quarantine Fund
Website Link Here .
Staff at Rogers Park Social
Website Link Here .
In addition, Roscoe's is selling eGift cards through March 31, with all proceeds going to the staff. You can apply the promotion code STAFF at this link to purchase a card with a value of twice what you pay. These cards have no expiration date and can be used for drinks, coat check, ticketed events and meet-and-greets.
Website Link Here .
—Windy City Times
