A bookseller on the East Coast experienced the heartbreaking loss of their parent who lived on the West Coast. The challenges of travel across the country during the pandemic, missing work, settling their estate, and the costs to pay for the parent’s funeral, were significantly more than this bookseller could afford.
Thoughtful colleagues stepped in and raised funds on the bookseller’s behalf, but it still wasn’t enough to cover all the expenses and the bookseller had no other family to turn to for help. Then a coworker suggested contacting Binc.
This bookseller was able to use two Binc programs – matching grants and the emergency financial assistance program. Your support allowed Binc to match what the bookseller’s local community raised, and provided enough additional assistance to pay for their travel expenses, and also the cremation and burial for their loved one.
Thanks to you and local community help, the financial burden was lifted off this bookseller’s shoulders during a very difficult time. Your support allowed them the time to not only take care of the difficult details but also to focus on their own well-being instead of the stress of wondering how they would pay the bills.
*Confidentiality is a core component of any assistance Binc provides. Some events may have been compressed and details might be included from another story to protect the confidentiality and privacy of all those who receive assistance from Binc.
“Medical expenses along with the necessary travel back and forth to the doctor caused a financial hardship for me. The owner of the bookstore I work for suggested that I apply to Binc. I was hesitant because I know there are many other people who need help much more than I do. I was brought to tears when Binc replied that they would be able to help me catch up on some of the bills I had. I am eternally grateful for their help, discretion and kindness. I would encourage any bookseller to reach out to Binc, don’t be embarrassed or shy…if they can help you, they will.”
— A bookseller you helped**
**Quotes may be edited for length, clarity and to help preserve confidentiality.