Black Women Vend is a training program created to give Black Women Street Vendors tools, resources and connections for sustained economic success. Street food vendors are an integral part of the culture and landscape in the City of Los Angeles. The majority of street food vendors are Black and Latina women. According to a 2018 report by Inclusive Action, street vendors contribute over $500 million to the city's economy.
As of today's date, the majority of street food vendors operate without proper permits and licenses. Vendors have a desire to operate legally, however, there is no viable path to permits for street food vendors. The regulations between city, county and state agencies do not align in a way that allows street food vendors to get permits.
On February 10, 2022, California Senator Lena Gonzalez introduced SB 972. This legislation will make changes to the CA Retail Food Code and create a path for street food vendors to get permits. While we are excited for the ability to get permits, the law will require vendors to be trained in the new compliance rules, be certified in safe food handling and get insurance, in addition to purchasing new equipment.
Black Women Vend is a training program that will prepare Black Women Street Vendors to meet the new SB972 permit requirements. The program is free to all Black Women food vendors in Los Angeles County.
Your donation lets the vendors get trained at no cost to them. Your donation covers operational costs, vendor equipment and permits fees. Invest in a Black woman owned business by making a generous donation today.
