Support for Bạn Bè and Doris Hồ-Kane's Family

For anyone who is unfamiliar with Bạn Bè, it is a Vietnamese American bakery located in the beautiful neighborhood of Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn, NY. Bạn Bè is recognized as the first Vietnamese American Bakery in New York City, and the baker and owner, Doris Hồ-Kane , is also the archivist behind 17.21 WOMEN.

For everyone who is familiar with Bạn Bè, you know that it is also an epicenter for marginalized communities to come together, to slow down, to laugh, and to have meaningful conversations about how food, art, and representation matter. While most of us come for delicious Vietnamese baked goods and coffee, we return again and again because we love Doris, Mark and their precious kids (who are a big part of what makes Bạn Bè special). The whole family can be seen contributing to the bakery and warmth that makes it feel like you've known them your whole life.

Please know this is not a fundraiser where the family decided to reach out for help - they're much more comfortable giving to the community than asking for anything from the community. Instead, this fundraiser is from members of the community recognizing a moment of need and an opportunity to uphold our community values.

Last week, one of their kids had to be rushed to the emergency room, sending the family into a state of panic and despair. After a long wait, the family have been able to move into the ICU, where they hope for a speedy recovery and a return back to home.

While our number one concern is for the health and well-being of their child, we also know that Bạn Bè is a mostly family-run bakery that has unexpectedly closed at the busiest time of the year. That being said, we ask that if you've ever had one of their cookie tins, a Pandan Waffle, or Vietnamese iced coffee, or any other delicious item of theirs, that you might consider donating any amount to support Bạn Bè, Doris, Mark and their family while the bakery remains closed. For those who haven't had the pleasure of visiting the bakery or trying any of their goods, Bạn Bè will welcome you next time you come to Brooklyn. But in order to do so...we need to help them survive. If you are not able to donate monetarily, in the spirit of community, connection and good will heading into the holiday season, please consider spreading the word via your networks.