Dear friends,
Our community center has been closed to the public since March 14. We began in 1989 driven by a need for safe space. 2020 has repeatedly begged the question: What does a safe space mean during a public health crisis? What does a safe space mean when you are at risk for violence not just because of your gender expression, but also your brownness or blackness or disability? Because of homelessness or criminalization?
As parts of the city reopen, we remain committed to staying closed. If open, we would no longer be a safe space.
Our staff and peers have worked since March 14 to serve safety and wholeness in new ways. After careful consideration, we are proud today to announce The OUTLast Emergency Assistance Program for trans people of color, and LGBTQ+ individuals who are undocumented, living with HIV, or Seniors 55 and older. As a “full-service” center, our responsiveness and our pivots are the key to serving and serving well.
The LGBTQ+ community has always been driven by a principle: We outlast the obstacles placed in our way by helping one another. In other words: We are still here.
We offer our gratitude to the crisis relief donations we have received this year, which built the start of our OUTLast Fund. We invite you, today, to take part in its growth.
Regards,
Molly Rose Quinn, MFA
Executive Director
Martavius Hampton, MPH
Senior Director, Health & Evaluation
Stephanie Reyes, MA
Senior Director, Development & Education
OUTLast Five Categories of Support
Applications are open July 1-15 for an August 1 start date.
Food & Supplies
- Food and supplies home delivery
- $100 gift card to grocery store OR pharmacy of choice.
Rent & Utilities
- $500 for rent OR utilities. Payment must be made to MLGW, leasing agent, or property owner.
Transportation
- Up to $50 via MATA bus passes OR Uber/Lyft gift card OR gas gift card.
Direct Financial Assistance
- $200 immediate assistance, check OR debit card.
Mental Health
- Financial assistance for 5 therapy sessions for individuals starting work with a new counselor. Funds are not available to pay for appointments with your current therapist.
