Neighbors Rally to Support Each Other During Government Shutdown

In the midst of the recent government shutdown, local Buy Nothing groups played a vital role in supporting communities across the United States. These online platforms, where neighbors share free goods and resources, became a lifeline for those struggling with job losses and benefit reductions.

However, the freewheeling gift economy faced challenges when Facebook abruptly shut down some Buy Nothing pages last month. The social media giant notified administrators that they were infringing on a trademark established three years ago by the Buy Nothing Project, a public benefit corporation. This move left many members, who had come to rely on the groups, feeling devastated and concerned about losing their avenue for getting their needs met.