We wanted to share a few examples of the difference that our 2020 grants are making. Below is a small sampling of how the funding has helped:
HEALTH BRIGADE: The transgender population is disproportionally affected by poverty and unemployment. The support from Diversity enabled the clinic to provide vital services such as medical and mental health appointments, cost of hormone and mental health prescriptions for 198 people.
METROPOLITAN COMMUNITY CHURCH: The grant enabled MCC to help maintain their food pantry, which averages helping over 350 people weekly. The funds assisted with the expenses of non-perishable foods, hygiene supplies and much needed shelving for the pantry.
NATIONZ FOUNDATION: Through Diversity funding, Nationz has helped 51 people facing homelessness with emergency housing, rental and utility assistance, food needs and postage to ship food to people who had no transportation.
SIDE BY SIDE: Due to the pandemic, the funds that were originally granted to support the Gender and Sexuality Alliance Summit were used to cover staff salaries to continue to provide support for schools and grow school’s Gay Student Alliance groups. Also, to expand the number of Youth Support Coordinators who are volunteer school staff who serve as liaisons between their schools and Side By Side. There are now 60 Coordinators in Central Virginia schools due to Side By Side outreach.
MINORITY VETERANS OF AMERICA: Conducted wellness-based programs for those struggling with addition and trauma; grew the Richmond Chapter membership from 50 to 89; conducted a leadership development program and provided financial assistance due to COVID 19 issues.
These are but a few of the ways that you, our donors, are playing roles in helping those in need. Thank you for your support.