My Nonprofit Reviews

Like many booksellers in April 2020, I found myself laid off from my job at an independent bookstore, with little savings, no back-up plan, and no idea what to do next. I was one year deep into my pursuit of my MFA in Creative Writing at The New School, and suddenly, as the COVID-19 pandemic blossomed across New York state, my continual presence in my apartment, my future in New York, and my finishing my degree were all in jeopardy.

But in the midst of all this chaos, BINC was there for me: They were stable and easy to work with, and they moved fast and efficiently. After I submitted my application for emergency assistance, I was contacted over the phone within a week. At first, I thought I was in a better place with my finances and was honest over the phone that I didn't need immediate assistance; however, when my situation took a turn for the worse, I called BINC back to update them on my new situation. I was amazed at how quickly they mobilized behind me—within a week I'd gotten support in the mail. Their assistance and funding were help enough, but I also appreciated the human touch. They were easy to talk with, and damn were they efficient. It was incredible to know that, even in such strange and alien times, there are resources out there to support even people like me, someone who's always depended on the kindness of strangers. I greatly appreciate their generosity and support in this dire time, and I hope that I'll be able to repay their kindness in the future.