Wellness Services FAQ

What is the Gender Affirming Garment library?
The Gender Affirming Garment (GAG) library is a free, discrete resource for Smith students to help assist in selecting the right garments and checking fit. We have a collection of binders from both TomBoyX and GC2B in a wide variety of colors, sizes (XS to 4XL), and styles. We also have tucking underwear and trans tape. Appointments are run by a student worker who can help assist you in measurements and finding the right fits.

Can I have a garment from the library?
The binders and tucking underwear are for trying on and determining the right size; we cannot give them away. We have a handful of secondhand binders we can give away. If buying a garment is a financial burden, we can help you apply for funding through Smith or other organizations.

Where can I get funding for gender affirming garments?
The Emergency Medical Fund, found on the Smith Social Network, covers up to $80 in funding for gender affirming garments per student per year.

Who helps out with the GAG library?
The GAG library was funded by the Resource Center for Sexuality & Gender and is maintained by the Wellness Department. CHOs run the library. CHOs are undergraduate students who receive training.

How does privacy work?
People come into the Resource Center for Sexuality & Gender for a variety of reasons. When you are called from the waiting room, the student worker will be discreet. They will take you to a private room for trying on the garments. Additionally, the student worker is bound by confidentiality.

Is the GAG library accessible?
The GAG library is in the Resource Center for Sexuality & Gender, which is in the basement of Wesley House. There is an access lift for getting up and down the stairs if needed.

Where is the GAG library?
We are located in the Resource Center for Sexuality & Gender.

How can I use the GAG library?
The GAG library is open from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. on Thursdays during trans open hours. If you would like to set up an appointment outside of those times, you can email wellness@smith.edu to be connected with a student worker directly.

How does the GAG library maintain cleanliness/safety?
Staff washes the binders at least once a semester and identifies if binders need to be washed more frequently. We also have gaffs/tucking underwear that students can either look at and not try on, or try on ONLY over underwear. We wash these garments after each fitting session.

Is there information on GAG safety?
Yes! When you visit the GAG library, you can chat with the student worker about safety. We also have information you can take home with you.

How do I join the CHO team?
The CHO team accepts new applications in October! Students who join the team are expected to remain on it for the duration of their time on campus. Being part of this team includes close mentorship from older students and staff, as well as an intensive two week training that is a requirement of being in the program. Given this required training, CHOs who join the team are not permitted to serve as HONS, HPs, or hold other student leadership roles that require early return to campus. We welcome applicants who are first-years and sophomores. The application will be posted in multiple places, including on our Instagram, in eDigest, sent to the pre-health list serve, and on posters around campus.