The Birmingham Free Store needs help!
The Free Store is an absolutely incredible anarchist mutual aid project in my town. It’s just what it sounds like - a store where everything is free - but it’s also so much more. It’s a much needed queer-affirming space, a host for many radical events, a hub for mutual aid distribution, a safe place for all marginalized people, and a source of vital support and safety for a primarily poor and Black neighborhood in Alabama. They’ve been providing lifesaving supplies such as masks, gloves, hand sanitizer, soap, bleach, and more throughout the pandemic, among a slew of other resources
Recently, they have lost the support of some major donors that were helping to keep the store running. Without that consistent support, it’ll be increasingly difficult to provide those resources to the over 300 people who depend on them. That’s why they need help from all you wonderful allies and accomplices across the world
Here’s a few things you can do:
Subscribe to the Free Store’s patreon to provide stable, recurring support that can be relied on for continued operation
Make a one-time monetary donation to their venmo (@bhamfreestore) or cashapp ($bhamfreestore)
Donate hygiene supplies, household items, seed packets, communist propaganda, or whatever else they can give away in bulk. If you live in Birmingham, bring it to 2030 Bessemer Rd during operating hours (see their social media for more info). If you don’t, you can now mail donations to P.O. Box 110429, Birmingham, AL, 35211-0429
Help get them connected to big donors, sponsors, grants, suppliers, distros, and co-conspirators - especially those that align with their values. Something like an anarchist mask-sewing or sanitizer-brewing collective that’s willing to give us a discount in solidarity would be kickass. Other, less kickass connections would also be very appreciated. Email [email protected] if you have any info that might help
Local Bham/Alabama businesses, organizations, nonprofits - let’s collab. There are several ways you might be able to help, such as allowing the Free Store to put up a donation box in your building which they will come by to empty every week (or as often as needed). Again, email [email protected] if you’re interested in supporting
Thank you for reading!!! The Free Store has been such an awesome development for Bham and I’d love to see it continue to provide for the community and grow. Please signal boost this post!
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