BLK dating app to give away money to combat the Black tax

Match Group's BLK, a dating app for Black singles, just rolled out its "Break the Bank 2.0: Black Tax Giveaway" initiative. The program addresses the Black tax, a financial strain felt by Black people in supporting their families and communities.

The Black tax isn't an official tax, but it's a significant, intergenerational issue in the Black community, BLK's press release stated. It often results from systematic racism and income inequality, which limits Black people from building wealth and accessing resources.

A recent survey the app conducted found that 79 percent of Black singles were unaware of the term until now, but that 44 percent of Gen Z and one in three Black singles over 40 support their families due to this financial burden. It takes a toll: 46 percent of respondents said their mental and emotional well-being has been negatively impacted. The Black tax affects the dating life of 28 percent of respondents, as well, resulting in less money for dates and lack of quality time.

As part of its initiative, BLK is giving away $250 to 10 app users. To enter, BLK users must write a story about their personal "Black tax experience" — how this financial burden has negatively impacted them, and how they would use the $250. "The initiative aims not only to provide financial support to those affected by 'Black tax' but also to raise awareness of this significant issue and promote Black joy within the community," the press release states.

Want more sex and dating stories in your inbox? Sign up for Mashable's new weekly After Dark newsletter.

The "Break the Bank 2.0: Black Tax Giveaway" program will run from April 26 to May 3. BLK users can read the full rules and learn how to enter here.