DCATS

Who can apply to the program?
There are only five main criteria to qualify for our program:

1. You are transmasculine or NOT cisgender (transmasculine means you were assigned female and birth but now identify as something else, in addition to, or are questioning)
2. You experience gender dysphoria related to not having a flatter chest.
3. You do not have the financial means to buy a binder (They cost about $35)
4. You live in DC, Maryland, or Virginia.

5. You have not applied before or can no longer use the binder you received.

No other factors influence whether you can apply, including age, gender identity, or already owning a binder. Folks applying 13 years old or younger must have parental permission to apply.

 

More questions? Send us an email at binderprogram@dcats.org 

Do I pay any costs to get a binder?
Nope! You receive the binder at no cost.

Where do the binders come from?
Out binders are donated from gc2b and are donated by other transmasculine and nonbinary folks. Some are new, while others have been worn. We do not send out stained or damaged binders. 

How do I receive the binder?
You can either choose to pick up the binder in-person at the DC Center or have it shipped to you. We highly encourage folks to pick up their binders in-person, if possible,  to help us save our limited financial resources to ship binders to those who cannot physically come by. 

Do I get to choose what kind of binder I get?
The application asks for preferences of style (short, long, etc.), which we try to fulfill if inventory allows. You do not get to select your preference of color unless you pick up your binder in-person.

How long will it take to get my binder?
When you apply to pick up your binder in-person, you can pick it up as soon as you confirm we have one in your size via email!

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Binder shipments take place at the end of each month. If your binder is shipped, you'll receive an automated email with a tracking number. 

Is shipping discreet?​
Yes. The outside package will contain your address, the name you choose to be put on the label, and our return address. Inside the package will only be the binder.

Can I choose the day/time my binder will arrive?
We ship first class USPS and cannot guarantee the time/day of arrival. You can also sign up for "Informed Delivery" from the USPS website under the name on the package before we ship your binder. Using this website, you should be able to leave instructions to the mail carrier for delivery. 

What if I live outside of DC, Maryland, or Virginia?
There's many binder programs in the US and around the world. Here is a list of programs that are closer to you. 

I have binders to donate. Where can I ship them/drop them off?
You can drop off or mail your binder donations to the DC Center. Please see here for their address and walk-in hours. You can also bring to most DCATS events.
 
How much does it cost to run the binder exchange program?​
Our program is run by volunteers, but it costs $3-4 per binder to ship each one, plus supplies.

How is this program funded?​
We are 100% funded by private donations. Please consider sending us a donation.