During the 1920s, Harlem residents needed a way to help keep up with skyrocketing rent costs. To keep their landlord from evicting them, the tenants would throw rent parties with food, drinks, and live music. During the party, they would pass a hat around and members of the community would all chip in a small amount, knowing that others would return the favor if they were in need.
These rent parties were not just a fundraiser for a neighbor in need, they were an inexpensive form of entertainment. Residents would come to see local musicians who offered their services for free or at a discounted rate. The mix of art, culture, and community laid the ground work for Jazz to take hold of Harlem.
Eventually the idea of rent parties caught on all over the country, including Philadelphia. SafeHome Philadelphia and other housing first organizations around the country are working to bring back these rent parties to help those in need.
Why Do Rent Parties Now?
For many of us, these tough economic times mean that we don’t eat out as much, travel to go on vacation, or work extra hard to find bargains on almost everything we buy. For others, this economy means that they might not be able to pay the heating bill, the car payment, or their rent.
In order to truly solve the housing problem, we must continue the original spirit of community that these rent parties were base on. It is possible to permanently end homelessness for an entire family for just $4,000, but only if the community as a whole is willing to pitch in.
How Can I Help?
All you need to throw a rent parties is some food, a little music, and a bunch of good friends and family. Here are a few other ideas to keep in mind when throwing a rent party:
- The party should be just like any other house or cocktail party, except that you can either charge a small admission fee or you can provide an opportunity for your guests to make a donation at some point in the evening.
- Try to set a donation goal for your party. $4000 can end homelessness for an entire family.
- SafeHome Philadelphia is here to help you with your party as well. We can work to set you up with others in your area who are interested in taking part in a rent party or help bring food, drinks, and other supplies.
- Take pictures and send them into SafeHome so we put them up on our website.
If you have any questions, please contact Kathleen Lewis at 215-232-2300
