Celebrating Pride: 5 Resources for LGBTQ+ Folks in Seattle
Pride is a celebration, but it also shines a spotlight on the many challenges and barriers that the LGBTQ+ community faces every single day.
While still growing, Seattle is thankfully home to many organizations and efforts to support LGBTQ+ folks in both the darkest and brightest of moments. Can Can serves as a welcoming home for any and all who need it; we wholeheartedly embrace differences and advocate for fierce joy.
Keep reading to learn more about five other wellsprings of endless hope, accessible resources, and opportunities to continue growing. Whether it be food insecurity, a struggle with addiction, or a desire to pursue education, these organizations are dedicated to helping you pave your path to a better and brighter tomorrow that we all deserve. Happy Pride!
Gay City: Seattle’s LGBTQ+ Center
Gay City: Seattle’s LGBTQ+ Center
What began as an HIV testing clinic has grown to become a hub for LGBTQ+ resources, including their Michael C. Weidemann LGBTQ Library, where checking out books is completely free. Gay City, whose goal is to make learning, wellness, and self-determination accessible for all LGBTQ+ folks who walk through their doors, also houses a youth drop-in space, mutual aid closet and pantry, and more! Check out their website to make HIV and STI testing appointments, learn more about enrolling in their low-cost public transit program, Orca Lift, or check out any upcoming events.
Pride Foundation Scholarship Program
Pride Foundation Scholars
Can Can’s Pride partner, Pride Foundation, has an incredible scholarship program for LGBTQ+ student leaders across the Northwest. This program has awarded over $7.5 million to more than 2,300 scholars since 1993! Pride Foundation enthusiastically invests in those who face racial, economic, ability, and other barriers. There are specific qualifications to apply, so take a look at their Scholarship Guidelines. Happy learning!
Affordable Housing and Treatment Homecare
Affordable Housing and Treatment Homecare
Through the initiatives of three programs–Three Cedars, Project Open Door, and Healthy Living–Affordable Housing and Treatment Homecare of Tacoma directly supports Washington residents living with HIV/AIDS and Hepatitis C by offering affordable housing and healthcare access. AHAT Homecare was initially founded as the “AIDS Housing Association of Tacoma” amidst the AIDS crisis in 1989 and expanded its care to those with Hepatitis C in 2016, taking on its new name of “Affordable Housing and Treatment Homecare.” Learn more about specific services, how to get involved, and where to donate at the AHAT Homecare website.
Ingersoll Gender Center
Ingersoll Gender Center
Self-defined as “for transgender and gender nonconforming communities,” the Ingersoll Gender Center has been a center for resource accessibility, education, and connection by offering peer support groups, resource and healthcare databases, job boards, and so much more for over 40 years. With values rooted in radical inclusivity, anti-violence, empathy, and solidarity, the Ingersoll Gender Center strives to follow the impactful words of the 19th Century leader for whom they are named, Robert Ingersoll: “The Time to be Happy is Now.”
Recovery Café
Recovery Café
One of Pride Foundation’s many grantees, the Recovery Café provides support and solidarity for those in recovery from the traumas of homelessness, addiction, and other mental health challenges. The Community Café offers free, nutritious meals every day, access to computers and phones, medical and dental care, recovery classes, support groups, and almost everything in-between. Visit Recovery Café’s website to learn about all that they do, or join in on their next Coffee Hour where folks old and new can learn about their story and mission while enjoying a hot cup of joe!
Want to get involved but don’t know where to start? Think it over with Can Can’s special Pride menu, featuring Ben-YAYs, Pink with Pride, and the zero-proof Love Wins! Every purchase of these exclusive items directly contributes to Pride Foundation and its valuable efforts. Book your table today!