Packaged with care

In a world filled with chaos and division, kindness, joy, and a simple cookie have emerged as a beacon of hope. Callyn Falk, a founder of the Trans Day of Remembrance Care Package Project, aims to provide comfort and support to trans and non-binary individuals. This annual initiative, initiated in 2020, involves preparing packages with baked goods, handmade crafts, and other thoughtful gifts for those who have lost their lives due to anti-transgender violence and systemic oppression.

The project, now in partnership with RAY, a non-profit organization, accepts donations to expand its reach.

Each year, about 50 packages are prepared, with additional packages for community leaders. This year, the project will pause its grassroots giving to reconsider its mandate and focus on addressing the needs of the community. The group, led by Falk and her baker extraordinaire Lindsay Unger, plans to resume baking in the fall and reach out to crafters for package items.

Recognizing the importance of community, Falk emphasizes that the care packages aim to comfort and nourish, rather than act as charity. Trans and non-binary artists have contributed special items to the project, and Falk encourages support for trans businesses in the community.