As Hurricane Ida approached, Jamie*, his partner, and their two cats evacuated from New Orleans to an out-of-state hotel. With the city and surrounding communities battered by flooding and often starting clean-up without power, Jamie and his family didn’t know when they could return or what they’d be returning to. There was so much uncertainty about their situation. They didn’t know when they would be able to get back to work, or when the power would be restored to their city, or if their home had sustained damage during the storm.
Just a couple of missed paychecks would put their rent payment and other essential household bills in jeopardy. Before that happened, Jamie called Binc. Once he started the application process, within a week, Binc was able to pay their rent and other household essentials, helping this family not fall behind on their household bills due to a natural disaster.
Binc can help in many ways during a natural disaster, from quick emergency funds for gas and food, to helping a family stay ahead of the mortgage in spite of missed paychecks and all the extra expenses a disaster can cause.
“It was easy to work with Binc and they responded extremely quickly. I am so grateful to the Binc Foundation,” Jamie said.
*Confidentiality is a core component of any assistance Binc provides, so the name of this bookstore owner has been changed. 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.
“My store Maui Comics & Collectibles received funds from Binc during the pandemic and early on. The funds provided helped us survive a prolonged shut down period. The staff was friendly and the process was simple and easy. We cannot thank Binc enough for the Aloha they showed us through a very difficult time! Mahalo nui loa, Binc!”
— A comic shop owner you helped**
**Quotes may be edited for length, clarity and to help preserve confidentiality.