The number of book and comic people needing help this year has already surpassed the total number of financial assistance grants in all of 2022 and there are still six weeks to go. The Book Industry Charitable (Binc) Foundation’s year-end campaign, Read Love Support, needs to raise $150,000 before Dec. 31, 2023, to ensure it can continue its commitment to never turn anyone in need away.
To date, Binc has provided 319 grants to book and comic sellers and their families compared to 295 in 2022. This year has also seen a 15% increase in requests for mental health and wellness support.
“The need for help in the book and comic community continues to grow and we expect the last six weeks of the year won’t be any different,” said Binc Executive Director Pam French, “Binc is the only 501(c)(3) in the country that is dedicated exclusively to supporting the people who own and work at book and comic stores. At a time when many worthy causes are also seeking funding, we are grateful for everyone who joins us to keep book people in their jobs and in their communities. While the holiday season can bring great joy it can also be a stressful time and many turn to the Foundation for mental health support, keeping utilities paid and food in the frig.”
Penguin Random House matched the first $15,000 in gifts dollar for dollar, doubling the power and impact of donations received. A Giving Tuesday match from Macmillan Publishers will be available to all donors beginning Nov. 28. Macmillan will match all gifts dollar for dollar, doubling the power and impact of donations received up to a total of $10,000.
“At Macmillan, one of our company values is impact which is also the foundation of our partnership with Binc and the year-end campaign,” said Kelly Collins, VP, Communications & Community, Macmillan Publishers. “We know that your gifts along with our match will make a positive impact on booksellers and their communities during this holiday season and beyond.”
In addition, Binc supporters will get an audiobook of their choice from Libro.fm. Give $100 and get one audiobook credit; give $500+ and get three audiobook credits. This offer is available until Dec. 31, 2023.
“Libro.fm is immensely grateful for Binc’s vital role in supporting booksellers and comic retailers in need,” said Mark Pearson, CEO and co-founder of Libro.fm. “The needs are so great across thousands of bookstores that without Binc, no other organization could handle the needs at this scale. Binc is uniquely positioned to redirect contributions from book lovers to booksellers who need it most during an emergency.”
To donate and have the donation matched for greater impact, click here.