Free Binders for Trans Youth in Maine!
About Our Binder Program
All binders are lightly used, freshly laundered, & donated by trans community (via gc2b & individual community members)
At this time, we are only able to ship binders to people living in Maine.
You must be 13 years or older to receive one of our binders (sorry, this is due to regulations).
Binders can be mailed (in discreet packaging OR picked up at our office in Portland).
You can request a binder by filling out the form below with information about sizing and how you’d like to receive it.
Sizing Resources
Below is a link with information and videos on finding your binder size from gc2b (the maker of the majority of our binder stock).
Our friends at Safe Combinations (a project of MaineTransNet) can also help with in-person sizing support by request!
Binder Safety
Because chest binding is compresses a wearer’s chest area over varying lengths of time, it comes with certain risks. It is very important to bind as safely as possible and with an eye towards harm reduction.
When picking a size, don’t get one that is too small. When in question, size up if needed and go slow if you’re just starting.
Don’t wear your binder for more than 8-10 hours each day. It can be helpful to also include rest days, where you take a break from binding. This includes avoiding sleeping in a binder, so your body can relax and rest when you are. Practicing breathing exercises and stretching can also be helpful.
Listen to your body. Binding improperly or for too long can cause chest and back pain, rib bruising and fractures, shortness of breath, overheating, and skin damage. If you are in pain or uncomfortable, pause binding if you can. Even when using best practices, it is possible to hurt yourself. You may need a different size or something else might be going on. Check in with a friend, trusted adult, or doctor who can help you make a plan to keep you and your body safe.
Remember: everyone’s body is different. Binding may or may not be the right choice for you and that’s okay. Experiences with this practice are as vast and varied as our trans community itself. We’re here to support you in whatever works best for you. <3
FAQ:
What styles, colors, sizes of binders are available?
Our stock is dependent on donations from community partners and free binder programs, like the one at gc2b. We will do our best to get you one of your first choices of binder style and color. We will also be in touch if supplies run low.
How long will it take to get my binder?
We process request weekly on Wednesday afternoons! As long as your desired size is in stock, it should take about a week to receive your binder.
What should I do if you don’t have my size?
If we run out of your size, we will notify you and send you one as soon as we get one. We will also work to source one from community whenever possible.