I'm unclear on this too - I offer people samples all the time. VIF'ing is pretty much how I ended up landing on ECF. Someone on subReddit recommended ECF as having better (more informed) content, more posts, and much more friendly members...and I'll agree highly to that.
ECF folks have sent me samples that have gotten me to branch out with what I've ordered, both with equipment and liquids. Most of the vendors I purchase from are supporters here on ECF.
I was also shocked that discussing what kind of coils I should target for a group buy was verboten. There was nothing on an external spreadsheet or monies collected. It was just a "let me know what is a good idea," question.
I kind of feel like the $40 I donated to ECF last month wasn't appreciated and that my presence isn't especially welcome here.