Resources for Massachusetts
LGBTQIA+ Youth During COVID-19
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This list is compiled by the Massachusetts Commission on LGBTQ Youth based on submissions from partner organizations and the community. Please send submissions or questions to commission@ma-lgbtq.org for us to review and potentially add!
You are also welcome to message our Twitter (@MassLGBTQyouth), Facebook (@MassLGBTQYouth), or Instagram (@masslgbtqyouth) with questions or a request for help.
Table of Contents:
General Resources
Other Resource Lists
Financial Relief
Artist and Entertainer Relief
Bartender and Restaurant Workers Relief
Taxes & Loan Assistance
Project Grant Funding
Health
Health Insurance
Free/Affordable Health Care
Health Information
Social Connection
Chat Spaces & Online Meetings
Social Media Pages & Online Groups
Mental Health & Support
Hotlines & Crisis Services
Mental & Behavioral Health Providers
Other Mental Health Resources
Suicide-Related Support Groups
Hearing Voices Groups:
Groups for Struggling with Problems with Food and/or Body Image:
Grupos en idiomas además de inglés (español, etc)/ Groups in Languages Other than English (español):
Groups Specifically for Black, Indigenous and Other People of Color
Food
Children & Students
Food Banks & Pantries
Housing
Homelessness Assistance
Shelters
Eviction Help
Find Rentals
Immigration
Mutual Aid
Area Specific
Education
Other Resources
Activities
Entertainment
Music
Art
Virtual Tours
Webinars
Wellness
Intimate Partner Violence / Survivor Resources
Harm Reduction
Recovery Services
Donating or Taking Action
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General Resources
www.ma-lgbtq.org -This is the Commission’s interactive map of local resources throughout Massachusetts. Many local LGBTQ youth organizations – for example, BAGLY, Boston GLASS, Framingham GLASS, and Out MetroWest, to name a few – have already shared ways in which they will stay connected to clients virtually throughout this pandemic. Contacting these organizations directly using the information found in our resource map is the best way to stay up-to-date on virtual offerings they have during this time.
www.glbtnearme.org – Find the largest collection of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender resources on the web. Find the closest social and support resources, the closest community centers, the closest youth groups, and much more! All you have to do is type in your zip code, the distance you are willing to travel, and choose from 26 categories of information including bisexual, transgender, crisis, recovery, youth, etc.
www.glbthotline.org – The LGBT National Help Center provides vital peer-support, community connections, and resource information to people with questions regarding sexual orientation or gender identity. Utilizing LGBT volunteers, they operate three national hotlines, LGBT National Hotline, LGBT National Youth Talkline, and LGBT National Senior Hotline. They also offer private volunteer one-to-one online chat, that helps both youth and adults with coming-out issues, safer-sex information, school bullying, family concerns, relationship problems and a lot more. They run weekly moderated chat rooms for LGBT youth and teens to find support and community.
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Other Resource Lists
COVID-19 Resources for Students
BAGLY’s List for LGBTQ Youth in MA
COVID-19 – Racial Equity & Social Justice Resources
GLAD COVID-19 Resources – Contains information specific to HIV-positive people as well as a comprehensive list of online/phone support services
Boston Queer Resources – Community-compiled Google Drive of resources for queer and trans people. Some are statewide; some are Boston-specific.
Database of National and Local Resources from Rad Comms Network – includes Trans and Queer Specific resources
Gender Spectrum Resources for Challenging Times
Resources for Artists During COVID-19
Resources for Entrepreneurs During COVID-19
Search for Social Services and Information in Massachusetts
Worcester Pride Community Resources
COVID-19 – Racial Equity & Social Justice Resources – These are racial justice focused tools for organizations as well as individuals
COVID-19 MUTUAL AID & ADVOCACY RESOURCES
Boston + MA COVID-19 Resources
Coronavirus Resource Kit – National Resources
Massachusetts COVID-19 Resource Guide
The Theatre Offensive’s Resource List (includes book, music, TV, and movie recs)
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Financial Relief
Unemployment Insurance (UI) Online
Massachusetts COVID-19 Unemployment Information
Boston Rent Assistance – For those ineligible for expanded unemployment benefits, or whose benefits are significantly lower than prior income.
Support for Workers in Crisis
Cambridge Virtual TipJar
Mini-Grants for Diverse & First Generation College Students
Small Business Relief Fund
Artist and Entertainer Relief
The Boston Artist Relief Fund
COVID-19 & Freelance Artists
The Boston Music Maker Relief Fund
The Boston Singers’ Relief Fund
Western Mass Low-income Artist/Freelancer Relief Fund
COVID-19 Relief Fund for Creative Individuals
Bartender and Restaurant Workers Relief
Bartender Emergency Assistance Program
BEHIND YOU! – one-time financial assistance to a qualified restaurant worker in need
Restaurant Opportunities Centers – National and city/state resources available to restaurant workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Support for Restaurant Workers
Resources for Restaurant Workers
Taxes & Loan Assistance
Disaster Loan Assistance – Federal Disaster Loans for Businesses, Private Nonprofits, Homeowners, and Renters
FREE Online Tax Filing Websites
Brookline Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program – due to COVID-19, Brookline tax preparation drop ins have been canceled. Brookline tax preparation sites have authorization from the Internal Revenue Service to implement a virtual delivery method for tax preparation instead. To limit the number of taxpayers that need to come to the buildings for income tax preparation all tax forms can be:
- Scanned and emailed to us at: mail@cfmp.us
- Faxed to: 617-433-1898
- Or mailed to: 9 Sylvan Road, Norton, MA 02766
The Intake/Interview Review Sheet Form for tax preparation (IRS Form 13614) can be downloaded at the Internal Revenue Service website (irs.gov). If you can, please print, complete and send this form, and a scan of your health insurance card with your documents. If you can’t, we will get this information over email or phone instead. When you contact us please include your phone number, mailing address, and email. All tax forms will be completed and sent back for your review and approval before we can file. Contact us at 855-687-7345 for more.
Project Grant Funding
$500-2000 grants to small community projects helping the LGBTQ+ community, especially youth-led and helping marginalized communities, from the Tegan and Sara Foundation.
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Health
Health Insurance
Insurance. The Massachusetts Health Connector has designated a temporary special enrollment period beginning on March 11, 2020, and ending on April 25, 2020, for currently uninsured Massachusetts residents. More information may be found here. If you work with clients/patients who are currently uninsured, please consider this opportunity to assist them to enroll in health insurance coverage for which they are eligible. The BRIDGE Program at CRI can assist in health insurance enrollment. They can be reached at (617) 502-1747 or www.crine.org/BRIDGE
MassHealth has extended some benefits and shares info for members here
Free/Affordable Health Care
Urgent Care. Beth Israel Deaconness Hospital is providing free remote urgent care to anyone, regardless of insurance, for any issue that is not an emergency – BIDMC
OnDemand Virtual Urgent Care
Cambridge Healthcare for the Homeless
Cambridge Multi-Service Center
Health Information
Partners Healthcare has a COVID hotline that is staffed by nurses from 8am-8pm. The number is (617) 724-7000.
Most of the nurses are English-speaking. The greeting is also admittedly in English. However, if the caller waits until the nurse (vs. the recording) comes on the line, all they need to do is say, “I speak Spanish”, “I speak Russian”, “I speak Arabic.” The nurse will put them on hold and immediately conference in an interpreter. The nurses can answer any and all COVID-specific questions.
One significant limitation – for folks who are Deaf/HoH or Deaf/Blind, the hotline is currently set up in such a way that the caller needs to already have an ASL interpreter on their end. For example, there is no TTY or other interface setup that might accommodate DeafTalk (with all its limitations). This is strictly a phone line at present. Partners is working to remedy this.
There are no questions about insurance or documentation. This hotline is free.
GLMA Health Provider Directory
HRC Healthcare Equality Index
CDC Database of LGBTQ-inclusive Health Clinics
Multiple Locations
Boston
Accessing Gender Affirming Care During COVID-19
How to Practice Safer Sex During the COVID-19
Fenway Health’s “Coronavirus, COVID-19, and Considerations for People Living with HIV and LGBTQIA+ People”
National Center for Transgender Equality’s “The Coronavirus (COVID-19): What Trans People Need to Know” Resource Sheet
Lebanese Medical Association for Sexual Health – What you need to know about having sex during the COVID-19 pandemic
How To Build Up Your Immune System
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Social Connection
Chat Spaces & Online Meetings
Calendar of Virtual Events for Massachusetts LGBTQ+ Youth – Created and maintained by GLSEN Massachusetts. Many of the events listed below are on the calendar, which you can save to your own Google account, get notifications for, or add to yourself.
Anywhere: www.qchatspace.org – Find and give support, have fun, connect around shared interests and get good information. Chat with like-minded peers in live chats designed for you & by you, facilitated by folks who care. Q Chat Space provides online discussion groups for LGBTQ+ teens ages 13 to 19. It is not a forum. It is live and chat-based; there is no video or audio. Everyone is chatting during the same pre-scheduled time.
Anywhere: LGBT National Help Center has several weekly chat rooms for LGBT and trans youth 19 and younger.
Massachusetts: Any middle or high schooler can participate in the Commission on LGBTQ Youth’s weekly Virtual GSA Hangouts. Email commission@ma-lgbtq.org for details or follow our Facebook page for details: https://www.facebook.com/MassLGBTQYouth
Massachusetts: Virtual drop-in space for LGBTQ and allied students, hosted by GLSEN Massachusetts. Thursdays 2-3pm. Check https://www.facebook.com/GLSEN.MA/ for details.
Boston area: – BAGLY will be holding online meetings (through Zoom) in lieu of its in-person drop-in space and programming. Stay up to date through the Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/bagly.allies.
BAGLY’s Virtual Community Center
Brockton area: BrAGLY is holding weekly online meetings for youth ages 14-19.
Metrowest: OUT Metrowest will be holding online youth meetings in lieu of in person drop-in, Umbrella, and WAGLY meeting. Contact Kay Gordon for details.
Framingham GLASS – Currently offering health navigation, and 1-on-1 support virtually via phone or computer. Clients that are currently receiving services can contact their regular GLASS staff person by phone or email for next steps. For general questions, email riseoutreach@jri.org
Program RISE & Framingham GLASS Supplies Request (MetroWest & Framingham)
Northeast/Merrimack: McVAGLY members are keeping in touch through a private Discord group
North Shore MA: NAGLY is holding all of its regular meetings online in addition to keeping open its Rapid Response Chat with staff members. Go to their calendar to view more information about virtual events.
- Every Tuesday, 6:30-8:30pm Youth Meeting
- Every Friday, 6:00-8:30pm TRANS-cendence
- Every Other Monday, 6:30-8:30pm Middle School Youth Group
- Every Tuesday, 3:30-7:30pm & Friday, 2-5pm Health Consultations
- Every Other Monday 6:30-8:30pm, E.P.I.C. Educators & Parents in Communication
- Every Friday 2-5pm, Drop In Hours
- Last Friday of Every Month, 5-8pm 17+ Movie Night
Worcester area: SWAGLY is holding virtual meetings for youth via Zoom. Check the FB page for Zoom links, or text or call 774-578-0817 for the access code.
- every Monday, 5:30-7:30pm, Juniors 11-14 year olds
- every Wednesday, 5:30-7:30pm, Teens, 15-18 year olds
Western MA: – House of Colors in Holyoke is holding daily video conferences for LGBTQ youth. Reach out on Facebook or Instagram to join.
New Bedford area: https://www.facebook.com/groups/NBAGLY/
- Every Friday, 6-7pm Mindful Meditation
Cape and Islands: Hyannis Port, Thrive! at CIGSYA
- There will be online events, information posted here
Many PFLAG chapters are meeting virtually or providing 1:1 virtual support as requested for parents/guardians or LGBTQ youth. Go to pflag.org/find to look up the PFLAG chapter in your area and reach out by phone, email or on social media to learn more about their virtual support options.
Social Media Pages & Online Groups
Berkshires LGBTQIA+ Youth Project
Gender Spectrum Online Group for Asian-Pacific Islander (API) Parents, Relatives and Caregivers Raising Gender
Gender Spectrum Diverse Children and Teens
Gender Spectrum Online Pre-Teen Group
Gender Spectrum Online Teen Group
Gender Spectrum Online Grandparents Group
Gender Spectrum Online National Parents Group – Grupo de padres en Español (Spanish Language Parent Support Group): Si desea unirse al grupo de apoyo mediante llamada mensual, o si tiene alguna pregunta, por favor contáctenos a espanol@genderspectrum.org
Gender Spectrum Online Facilitator Support Group
Central Mass LGBT and Friends Breakfast Club
LGBT Meetup for Central MA
Queer Exchange: Worcester
Shades by Worcester Pride
Worcester County LGBTQIA+ Group
Worcester Youth Pride
Your Queer Story: An LGBT Support Group
Mondays, 2pm – 3:30pm EDT: Hang Out & Peer Support for people ages 16 to 22 (Offered through the Zia Young Adult Access Center)
Access: Text Vesper for details at 774.242.6364
Tuesdays, 2pm – 3:30pm EDT: Hang Out & Peer Support for people ages 16 to 22 (Offered through the Zia Young Adult Access Center)
Access: Text Vesper for details at 774.242.6364
Wednesdays, 2pm – 3:30pm EDT: Hang Out & Peer Support for people ages 16 to 22 (Offered through the Zia Young Adult Access Center)
Access: Text Vesper for details at 774.242.6364
Thursdays, 2pm – 3:30pm EDT: Hang Out & Peer Support for people ages 16 to 22 (Offered through the Zia Young Adult Access Center)
Access: Text Vesper for details at 774.242.6364
Fridays, 2pm – 3:30pm EDT: Hang Out & Peer Support for people ages 16 to 22 (Offered through the Zia Young Adult Access Center)
Access: Text Vesper for details at 774.242.6364
Wednesdays, 11am – 12pm EDT: LGBTQ+ Group (Offered through the Metro Boston Recovery Learning Community)
Access by web: https://bostonmedicalcenter.zoom.us/j/596295348
Access by phone: 646.558.8656
Meeting ID: 596 295 348
Wednesdays, 10pm EDT: Let’s Get Better Together- A LGBTQ+ Safe Space (Offered through Project Return)
Access through Web: https://bit.ly/39stcas
Thursdays, 5:30pm – 7pm EDT: The Wildflower Alliance LGBTQIA+ Support Group*
Access by web: https://zoom.us/j/679141713
Access by phone: 929.436.2866
Toll free access: 888.205.3279
Meeting ID: 679 141 713
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Mental Health & Support
Hotlines & Crisis Services
866-488-7386 or www.thetrevorproject.org – 24/7 suicide prevention & support line for LGBTQ & GNC youth. The Trevor Project Lifeline offers phone calls with trained counselors, while Trevortext connects by text with a specialist. If you need someone just to chat with Trevor Chat is free and confidential. TrevorSpace is an online forum and social network for LGBTQ+ youth and their allies under 25.
877-565-8860 or www.translifeline.org – The Trans Lifeline offers direct emotional and financial support to trans people in crisis – for the trans community, by the trans community. Additionally, they have a living library that contains multiple tables, holding info ranging from Federal down to specific county information per state about name changes & gender marker changes on IDs.
Text HOME to 741741 for the Crisis Text Line. 24/7 access to trained counselors for any crisis. It’s not LGBTQ-specific, but 40% of texters identify that way.
LGBT National Help Center – Offers a national hotline for youth, adults, and seniors, as well as online peer support chat rooms and a weekly youth chatroom for queer kids age 19 or younger.
- 800-246-7743 – LGBT youth 25 or younger- Mon-Fri 4pm-midnight, Sat noon-5pm (Eastern time)
- 888-843-4564 – LGBT callers of any age – Mon-Fri 4pm-midnight, Sat noon-5pm (Eastern time)
877-870-4673 for the Samaritans 24/7 hotline – Call or Text.
Mental & Behavioral Health Providers
Boston Area GSM-Friendly Therapist List – Community-created list of therapists known to be friendly to one or more gender or sexual minority (queer, trans, kink, sex workers). POC-friendliness also rated.
The Meeting Point – Collective of psychotherapists specializing in LGBTQI clients, located in Jamaica Plain (Boston).
How to Find an LGBTQ+ or LGBTQ+-Affirming Therapist
Other Mental Health Resources
itgetsbetter.org – Connects young LGBTQ+ people with the global LGBTQ+ community by providing access to a vast collection of inspiring stories of hope and resilience. The It Gets Better Project builds community by creating a network of international partners that support LGBTQ+ youth in their home countries, engaging with young LGBTQ+ people both on and offline, and connecting them to local community service providers that can provide on-the-ground assistance.
Samaritans – Grief Support Services to cope with losing a loved one to suicide. Virtual SafePlace Meetings will take place Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 6:30-8pm.
Elizabeth Stone House – Support for adult and child survivors of sexual violence, including counseling, support groups, and housing assistance.
The Kiva Center – During COVID-19 they will post daily on Facebook, have Zoom meetings, and use texting and other platforms as they are available.
Supporting Students’ SEL and Mental Health Needs During COVID-19 (Repeat Webinar), 3:00-4:00 p.m., Thursday, April 9. Due to popular demand, DESE is offering this webinar (originally held on March 31) again. The webinar is open to all educators, and registration is open online. To view the recording, slides, and resources from the first webinar, visit this website.
For District Leaders: Webinar on Setting Up Effective District-Wide Systems to Support Students’ and Educators’ Mental Health Needs during COVID-19: Offered twice: 12:00-1:30 p.m. Friday, April 17 and 12:00-1:30 p.m., Friday, April 24. Registration for both the April 17 and April 24 webinars are open online. (Note: The two webinars will offer the same information; please register for only one.)
Peer-Sharing Virtual Meetings: Date and time to be determined. The Department and its partners plan to set up facilitated peer-sharing meetings focused on topics such as supporting students’ SEL growth in the COVID-19 era, addressing students’ acute mental health needs, and promoting mental health and connectedness among school staff. Anyone interested in participating is asked to fill out this survey, and groups will be formed based on common interests.
Suicide-Related Support Groups
Mondays: 6:30pm to 8pm EDT: Alternatives to Suicide* Access by web, Access by phone: 646.876.9923, Toll free access: 888.205.3279, Meeting ID: 129 319 114
Tuesdays: 5pm to 6:30pm EDT: Alternatives to Suicide* Access by web Access by phone: 646.876.9923 Toll free access: 888.205.3279 Meeting ID: 268 279 566
Wednesdays: 11am-12:30pm EDT: Alternativas al suicidio en español/Alternatives to Suicide in Spanish* Web Access: https://zoom.us/j/687922466 Phone Access: 646.876.9923 Toll Free Access: 888.205.3279 Meeting ID: 687 922 466
- 1pm to 2:30pm EDT: Alternatives to Suicide* Access by web, Access by phone: 646.876.9923, Toll free access: 888.205.3279, Meeting ID: 913 556 470
- 3:30pm to 4:30pm EDT: Alternatives to Suicide (Offered through Toivo) access by web, Access by phone: 646.876.9923, Meeting ID: 793 918 997
- 8:30 – 10 PM EDT: Deadly Serious–Talking Openly About Suicide (Based on Alternatives to Suicide principles, Offered through Peerly Human) Access by Web Access by Phone: 669 900 6833 Meeting ID: 119 362 879
Thursdays, 6:30pm – 8pm: Alternatives to Suicide*
Access by Web: https://zoom.us/j/525105267
Access by Phone: 646.876.9923
Toll free access: 888.205.3279
Meeting ID: 525 105 267
Fridays, 5pm – 6:30pm: Alternatives to Suicide*
Access by Web: https://zoom.us/j/546390511
Access by Phone: 646.876.9923
Toll free access: 888.205.3279
Meeting ID: 546 390 511
Saturdays, 12 – 1:30 PM EDT: Deadly Serious–Talking Openly About Suicide (Based on Alternatives to Suicide principles, Offered through Peerly Human)
Access by Web: unityrecovery.zoom.us/my/allrecovery
Access by Phone: 669 900 6833
Meeting ID: 119 362 879
Hearing Voices Groups:
Mondays, 7pm – 8:30pm EDT: Hearing Voices Group for Eastern/Central Time Zones*
Access: E-mail info@hearingvoicuesusa.org for login and other details
Mondays, 8pm – 9:30pm EDT: Hearing Voices Group for Family & Friends*
Access: E-mail families@westernmassrlc.org for login and other details
Tuesdays, 7:30pm – 8:30pm EDT: On-line and Phone Support Group (offered through Advocacy Unlimited and the CT Hearing Voices Network)
Access: Contact Skye at scollins@advocacyunlimitedorg or 860.952.4050 for more details on this group
Wednesdays, 6pm – 7:30pm EDT: Hearing Voices Group for Eastern/Central Time Zones*
Access: E-mail info@hearingvoicuesusa.org for login and other details
Saturdays, 4pm EDT: Hearing Voices Network (Offered through Project Return)
Access through Web: https://bit.ly/39stcas
Sundays, 6pm – 7:30pm EDT: Voices & Visions (Offered through the Recovery Outreach Community Center)
Access by Web: https://us04web.zoom.us/meeting/register/u5ckceigqDotdB3rf09gdqvK0rWi-FBqXg
Groups for Struggling with Problems with Food and/or Body Image:
Mondays, 5:30pm – 6:30pm EDT: Eating Disorders Support Group (Offered through the Recovery Outreach Community Center):
Access by Web: https://us04web.zoom.us/j/387792582
Grupos en idiomas además de inglés (español, etc)/ Groups in Languages Other than English (español):
Mondays, 11am – 12pm EDT: Apoyo Entre Pares/Peer Support Group in Spanish (Offered through the Central Mass RLC), Access by Phone: 508.556.4226
- 3pm to 4:30pm EDT: Grupo de apoyo de pares en español/Peer Support Group in Spanish* Web Access: https://zoom.us/j/963285007 Phone Access: 646.876.9923 Toll Free Access: 888.205.3279 Meeting ID: 963 285 007
- 8pm – 9pm EDT: Apoyo Entre Pares/Peer Support Group in Spanish (Offered through the Central Mass RLC) Access by Phone: 508.556.4226
Tuesdays, 11am – 12pm EDT: Apoyo Entre Pares/Peer Support Group in Spanish (Offered through the Central Mass RLC)
Access by Phone: 508.556.4226
- 8pm – 9pm EDT: Apoyo Entre Pares/Peer Support Group in Spanish (Offered through the Central Mass RLC), Access by Phone: 508.556.4226
Wednesdays, 11am to 12:30pm EDT: Alternativas al suicidio en español/Alternatives to Suicide in Spanish* Web Access: https://zoom.us/j/687922466 Phone Access: 646.876.9923 Toll Free Access: 888.205.3279 Meeting ID: 687 922 466
- 11am – 12pm EDT: Apoyo Entre Pares/Peer Support Group in Spanish (Offered through the Central Mass RLC) Access by Phone: 508.556.4226
- 7pm – 8pm EDT: Suporte De pares/Peer Support Group in Portuguese (Offered through the Central Mass RLC) Access by Phone: 774.217.6713
- 8pm – 9pm EDT: Apoyo Entre Pares/Peer Support Group in Spanish (Offered through the Central Mass RLC) Access by Phone: 508.556.4226
Thursdays, 11am – 12pm EDT: Apoyo Entre Pares/Peer Support Group in Spanish (Offered through the Central Mass RLC)
Access by Phone: 508.556.4226
- 8pm – 9pm EDT: Apoyo Entre Pares/Peer Support Group in Spanish (Offered through the Central Mass RLC) Access by Phone: 508.556.4226
Fridays, 11am – 12pm EDT: Apoyo Entre Pares/Peer Support Group in Spanish (Offered through the Central Mass RLC)
Access by Phone: 508.556.4226
- 8pm – 9pm EDT: Apoyo Entre Pares/Peer Support Group in Spanish (Offered through the Central Mass RLC) Access by Phone: 508.556.4226
Groups Specifically for Black, Indigenous and Other People of Color
Thursdays, 4:30pm EDT: Black Voices Pathways 4 Recovery
Access: For more information or to attend, contact Valeria at blackpathways4recovery@gmail.com
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Food
Apply for SNAP Benefits (food stamps)
Children & Students
Statewide School Closure Meal Information
City of Boston – Map of Meal Sites for Children and Youth
Meal & Supply Relief Daily for BPS Students – Violence In Boston Inc. volunteers are cooking and delivering daily meals to children in Boston. Slots fill up fast; check the page for sign-up sheets.
Project Bread’s Map of Meal Sites for children
Food Banks & Pantries
Food For Free – serving Cambridge and Massachusetts
Free Groceries for All at Makeshift Boston, Mondays 5:30pm
The Food Bank of Western MA – has a food bank agency locator
Greater Boston Food Bank – Resources During COVID-19
Loaves & Fishes – Food pantry serving Ayer, Devens, Dunstable, Groton, Harvard, Littleton, Shirley
Ethos Community Café – Boston area, serving older adults
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Housing
Please send resources to commission@ma-lgbtq.org
Homelessness Assistance
Emergency Assistance – The Massachusetts Coalition for The Homeless reports that “With office closures until at least April 3rd, families with children seeking to apply for Emergency Assistance (EA) shelter only can apply by phone with the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD).” Call 1-866-584-0653 to apply.
The Residential Assistance for Families in Transition Program (RAFT) Updates – The homelessness prevention program has received a $5 million infusion of new funds from MassHousing to address needs related to COVID-19. The flyer is available as a PDF in both English and Spanish.
Shelters
**Experiencing abuse or violence at home? Call Safelink at 877-785-2020 for help finding a safe place to stay.**
Y2Y Harvard – Cambridge- 30-day shelter for young adults aged 18-24. Gender neutral, LGBTQ-friendly shelter in Harvard Square.
Bridge Over Troubled Water – Downtown Boston – Services for youth aged 14-24 experiencing homelessness, runaways, and at high risk. Call 617-423-9575.
Pine Street Inn – South End of Boston – Shelters and services for adults 18+. Call 617-892-9100.
St Francis House – Downtown Boston – Day shelter and basic services including food and showers.
Wayside Youth
Somerville Homeless Coalition – Two shelters, outreach, food assistance, supportive housing, and rapid response for individuals and families at risk of or experiencing homelessness
The Network La Red – 1-month transitional housing for LGBQ/T survivors of partner abuse, and longer-term supportive housing.
112 Southampton St. Shelter
Caspar Shelter
Rosie’s Place
Woods Mullen Shelter
Eviction Help
Legal Help from Greater Boston Legal Services
Find Rentals
Boston-Area COVID Shutdown Housing & Storage Spreadsheet
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Immigration
When We Fight, We Win – Mutual Aid & Solidarity in a Time of Crisis, Webcast Series
Info on Healthcare Access for Undocumented Immigrants
Resource Database for Undocumented Immigrants
Find Immigrant Friendly Healthcare Center
Boston Rent Assistance that might be available to immigrants otherwise ineligible for unemployment benefits – this is not verified, but seems possible
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Mutual Aid
COVID-19 Trans/Queer Relief Form
COVID-19 Mutual Aid USA
Muslim American Mutual Aid
Mutual Aid Medford and Somerville (MAMAS) – Has grown beyond just Medford and Somerville to take the lead on organizing mutual aid networks elsewhere. Manages a resource on creating your own mutual aid network.
Area Specific
Alston/Brighton Mutual Aid
Arlington Mutual Aid
Boston South End Mutual Aid
Boston Queers Mutual Aid Facebook Group
Brookline Mutual Aid
Dorchester Community Care
Greater Lawrence Mutual Aid Network
Framingham Mutual Aid
Jamaica Plain and Roxbury Mutual Aid
Lincoln-Sudbury Mutual Aid
Lynn Mutual Aid
Lifting Lowellians – Lowell Mutual Aid
Lexington Mutual Aid
Medford and Somerville Mutual Aid (MAMAS)
Revere Mutual Aid Network
Roslindale Mutual Aid Network
South Coast Mutual Aid
Tufts Mutual Aid for Students Affected by COVID-19
Western MA: WMA Community Mutual Aid
Waltham Mutual Aid (MAW)
Worcester Mutual Aid
Education
Educational Resource Page from DESE
Free Massachusetts Education Resources from PBS
WGBH Distance Learning Center (Also free Massachusetts resources)
Khan Academy: free videos on a number of topics
MIT OpenCourseWare: MIT course material available for free online
EdX: free course from a number of institutions
Coursera: free (and paid) online courses, including Yale’s very popular Science of Well-Being course
Virtual Student Center by MAP Academy: The school is designed to serve students for whom traditional school has not worked, including students who have dropped out.
Information on Serving Students with Disabilities During School Closure
The Neighborhood: A Virtual Hub for LGBTQ+ Families
Lesson Plans for School Counselors– Resources for dealing with the emotional implications of COVID-19 are appearing everywhere. This site is designed to simplify your life. Karen and Katie will scour the internet each week to bring you age-appropriate lessons around a theme relevant to these times we are experiencing. We will also provide information caregivers may find helpful in supporting their childrens’ mental health during this crisis.
Sophia Learning Offering Free Access
Sophia Learning is offering free access to its online general education courses through July 31, 2020. Sophia Learning offers self-paced, online courses. All Sophia general education courses are American Council on Education (ACE) recommended which means they are eligible for transfer to numerous higher education institutions for course credit. They also offer professional development courses on topics such as conflict resolution and goal setting. This opportunity is open to everyone – including friends and family members who may also benefit –and you can take as many courses as you want, free of charge. Visit Sophia’s site for more information and to browse available courses.
MA School Counselor Association
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Other Resources
Boston Helps “I’m Looking For Help” Form
Roslindale Cares Resources – Hotlines, Childcard, Food, Etc
Coronavirus 2019: What LGBTQ+ People Need to Know
The Coronavirus (COVID-19): What Trans People Need to Know
How LGBTQ+ People Can Get Help and Resources During Coronavirus
Coronavirus, COVID-19, and Considerations for People Living with HIV and LGBTQIA+ People
COVID-19 & LGBTQ Clients: Key Considerations
More About the LGBTQ Community and COVID-19
Coronavirus Compounds Inequality and Endangers Communities of Color
COVID-19: What is Considered an Essential Service
Free and Reduced Internet Access
Keep Americans Connected Pledge – companies will not to terminate service to residential or small business customers, will waive late fees, and will open Wi-Fi hotspots to anyone who needs them. More information on offerings that might be helpful to families and districts are available on this page from the State Educational Technology Directors Association
Google Folder with COVID Information in Various Languages
Exempt Child Care Emergency Info – Emergency drop-in care programs are opening to provide back-up care for vulnerable families and workers who have no other option. Priority will be given to people including but not limited to health care workers, essential state and human service workers, COVID-19 health workers, grocery store employees, emergency response personnel, law enforcement, transportation and infrastructure workers, sanitation workers, DCF-involved families, and families living in shelters. A map of the locations of the providers can be found here.
Legal Aid at Work FAQ – on filing for unemployment, forced stay-home, immigrant discrimination, etc.
Coronavirus COVID-19 Response: Community Cafe Open and Closure Status
How to talk to your loved ones about COVID-19
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Activities
YouTube series LUNCH DOODLES with Mo Willems
Gender Spectrum YouTube Channel
Where to Livestream your Worship this Weekend: LGBT-Affirming Churches, Mosques and Synagogues Offering Online Services
Entertainment
Boston Public Library – All MA residents are eligible for a free account! With this you can borrow, download, and stream books, movies, magazines, audio books, and more! Sign up here. View online resources
Free Audiobooks and E-Books. The Libby app uses your library account to borrow audiobooks and e-books on your phone.
Leominster Public Library – Go here to learn a new language, stream movies & TV shows, check out ebooks & audiobooks
Virtual Storytelling – click “K-3 storytelling learning lab” on the blue banner
Watch Synchronized Netflix with Your Friends – Must Use Chrome
Music
Live Stream or Watch A Recording of a Performance at the Met Opera
Stay at Home Online Music Festival and Events Calendar
Nowaday’s Music Live-Streams
Art
Every Week Day, 1pm – 2pm EDT: Lunch Doodles with Mo Willems (Offered through the Kennedy Center) Access by Web
Mondays, 4pm EDT: Creative Minds (Offered through the Advocates Living Room)
Access by Web, Access by Phone: 6465588656, Meeting ID: 779 204 222
Tuesdays, 4pm EDT: Creative Minds (Offered through the Advocates Living Room)
Access by Web, Access by Phone: 6465588656, Meeting ID: 779 204 222
- 3pm – 4pm EDT: Creativity Recovery (Offered through the Recovery Outreach Community Center), Access by Web
Wednesdays, 4pm EDT: Creative Minds (Offered through the Advocates Living Room), Access by Web, Access by Phone: 6465588656, Meeting ID: 779 204 222
Thursdays, 4pm EDT: Creative Minds (Offered through the Advocates Living Room)
Access by Web, Access by Phone: 6465588656, Meeting ID: 779 204 222
Fridays, 12pm – 1pm EDT: Meditative Coloring on Facebook (Offered through Toivo)
Access by Web
- 4pm EDT: Creative Minds (Offered through the Advocates Living Room)
Access by Web, Access by Phone: 6465588656, Meeting ID: 779 204 222
Sundays, 2pm – 3pm EDT: Creative Expressions Workshop
Access by Web, Access by Phone: 646 876 9923,Meeting ID: 253 319 591
Virtual Tours
Take Virtual Tours of Boston-area Cultural Institutions From Home
Virtual Museum Tours
Virtual Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History Tour
Webinars
(Some webinars that have passed may have recordings you can download.)
Living with an Abuser During Social Distancing: Coping Strategies & Support, Recording Now Available, Alisha Mcullough
Learn about LGBT Health with Fenway Health’s Extensive Library of Webinars and More – extensive library of webinars, publications, and more, and earn CME credit on eligible materials.
HRC All Children – All Families: Online Learning Archive
CE Fees Waived for ACAF Core Webinars – ACAF’s three 90-minute “Core Curriculum” webinars are each eligible for 1.5 CEs from NASW. In light of our current economic uncertainties, we have waived the fee associated with obtaining these credits.To get free CEs, enter this code when asked for payment: HRCACAF0410. Explore webinars.
National LGBT Health Education Center – Fenway Institute, On-Demand Webinars offers over 40 on-demand webinars on topics such as:
- Introduction to LGBT Health
- LGBT Youth
- Transgender Health Care
- HIV Prevention
- Same-Sex Domestic Violence and more!
- For more information, click here!
Justice Brunch – a Sunday Series ft Queer Disabled BIPOC, hosted by disability justice culture club. Sunday Afternoons 4/12 – 5/10
- “I F^#*ed Up! Here’s What I Learned and How I Apologized” 4/12 4PM EST
- TBA Neve Mazique – Sunday 4/26 @ 4PM EST
- Safer Sex Work in the Pandemic Shanelle Jones 4/29 @ 4PM EST
- “Care Work During Coronavirus” Leah Lakshmi Piepzna-Samarasinha 5/3 4PM EST
- “If You Can Breathe, You Can Sing and Dance” India Harville & JJ Omelagah 5/3 (4PM EST)
COVID-19 and Mental Health – Thursday, April 16, 1-2pm EDT, Dr. Alex Keuroghlian. This webinar will offer recommendations related to mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic. Topics include resources for general mental health and coping, specific mental health conditions, families and children, health care providers, and cultivating mindfulness. Register here.
Neurodiversity and LGBTQIA+ Identity – Thursday, April 23, 2020 at 2:00PM EDT, Janet Barbieri, Dr. Gerrit van Schalkwyk. This webinar will address the intersectionality of LGBTQIA+ identity and neurodiversity. Dr. Alex Keuroghlian will discuss psycho-social implications for people who are sexual and gender minorities and also neurodiverse, and also discuss how to best serve these individuals. Janet Barbieri will address social support for LGBTQIA+ and neurodiverse people and the importance of community opportunities and engagement for these individuals. AANE Speaker’s Bureau panelist Kendrick will describe his experience as an LGBTQIA+ and neurodiverse person, and talk about what he needs from his healthcare providers and his community. Register here.
PrEP at Home – Wednesday, April 29 at 1:00PM EDT, Kenneth H. Mayer, In this webinar, Dr. Ken Mayer will address telePrEP and the PrEP at home model for LGBTQIA+ patients. Dr. Mayer will cover the basics of starting and monitoring PrEP with an at-home start, and also address specific needs and concerns for sexual and gender minority people around PrEP and telePrEP. Register here.
Supporting LGBTQ Youth In Schools – Wednesday, May 6 2:30-3:30 PM EDT, Holly Fontenot, Sean Cahill, Leigh Szucs, Michelle M Johns, This webinar presents the unique needs of sexual and gender minorities for school-based professionals. Participants in this webinar will learn key concepts related to sexuality and gender, discuss findings from recent research on LGBTQ youth and school environments, identify strategies for improving school environments for LGBTQ youth, and discuss available tools and resources to guide implementing these strategies. Register Here
National LGBT Health Education Center – Fenway Institute Webinars
TeleHealth for PrEP – Tuesday, April 14, 6-7pm EDT, Kenneth H. Mayer, Julian Dormitzer, Kevin Herwig. Join us for a virtual presentation on PrEP and TeleHealth. Topics will include cunt studies evaluating PrEP initiation and follow-up via TeleHealth, prescribing, monitoring, lab tests, and counseling patients, as well as drug assistance programs in Massachusetts. Register here.
Care for the Caregiver: Fear of the Unknown – Monday, April 20th, 6:00-7:00PM EDT, Stephen M. Brady, Join us for a virtual presentation on managing stress, fear, and emotional responses during times of uncertainty. This interdisciplinary, interactive webinar will address caring for the overwhelmed caregiver responding to times of crisis. Register here.
Understand the Impact of Student Homelessness on Society- Tuesday, April 21 at 2 pm ET / 11 am PT: This presentation will help you address both the broader problem of youth homelessness and the specific issues created by COVID-19 that undermine the well-being of your community. Register now. Can’t make the live webinar? Register now and you will receive a link to the recording and slides after the webinar takes place.
How You Can Make a Difference – Panel Discussion with LGBTQ Foster Care – Apr 22, 2020 02:00 PM, This webinar features a panel of LGBTQ foster care alumni dedicated to creating change in the child welfare system Panelists will share their stories and provide recommendations for youth-serving professionals on how to best support young people with diverse SOGIE.
An Evening with Andrew Solomon – April 21 @ 7:00 pm EDT New York Times’ bestselling author Andrew Solomon joins Family Equality for an exclusive reading of his new book and a question and answer session to follow.
Survivors on the Margins Black Community: Centering the Needs of Youth and Children Survivors
May 13, 2020, 2:00pm – 3:00pm EST
This webinar will focus on recognizing trauma in youth and children and exploring Afrocentric and Afro-Indigenous healing modalities and wellness. Register Here
Survivors on the Margins of Black Community: Centering the Needs of Survivors with Physical Disabilities
May 18, 2020, 2:00pm – 3:00pm EST – This webinar will focus on strategies for programs to develop and maintain accessibility and cultural competency. Register Here
Survivors on the Margin of Black Community: Centering the Needs of Lesbian, Gay, Bi-sexual, Trans and Queer Survivors
May 22, 2020, 2:00pm – 3:00pm EST, This webinar will focus on promising practices for program policies and processes for better inclusion and affirmation of LGBTQ staff and survivors. Register Here
Survivors on the Margins of the Black Community: Centering the Needs of Latinx Black Immigrant and Refugee Survivors
May 26, 2:00pm – 3:00pm EST This webinar will focus on effective approaches at the intersections of Immigrants, Refugee life, and Gender-Based Violence. Register Here
Understanding Gender for Parents, Families, and Friends
June 1st, 5:00 pm PT/8:00 pm ET
Survivors on the Margins Black Community: Centering the Needs of Deaf and Hard of Hearing Survivors
June 1, 2020. 2:00pm – 3:00pm EST, This webinar will focus on culturally specific insights and strategies for intentional planning and methods of delivering information for deaf, and hard-of-hearing survivors, Register Here
Wellness
Boston Area Virtual Fitness Classes
Care for Your Coronavirus Anxiety – Guided Meditation
Virtual Yoga Classes by The Center for Trauma and Embodiment
Yoga with Adriene
The Phoenix: Virtual and live-streamed classes
Mondays, 9am – 10:30am EDT: Monday Morning Mindfulness Circle (Offered through the Community Yoga & Wellness Center) Access by Web, Access by Phone: (646) 876-9923, Meeting ID: 287-440-3084
Tuesdays, 10 – 11am EDT: Yoga on Facebook (Offered thru Toivo), access by Web
- 10:30am – 11:30am EDT: Trauma Sensitive Yoga with Cate* access by Web
- 1pm – 2:30pm EDT: Tuesday Mindfulness Circle* Access by Web, Access by Phone: (646) 876-9923, Toll free access: 888.205.3279 Meeting ID: 287-440-3084
- 6pm – 7pm ET: Qi Gong on Facebook (Offered thru Toivo) Access by Web
Wednesdays, 12pm – 1pm EDT: Wednesday Mindfulness Circle (Offered through the Recover Project) Access by Web, Access by Phone: (646) 876-9923, Meeting ID: 287-440-3084
- 4pm EDT: Wellness Wednesdays on Facebook (Offered through the Northeast RLC) Access by Web
- 6:15pm – 7:30pm EDT: Evening Mindfulness Circle* Access by Web, Access by Phone: (646) 876-9923, Toll free access: 888.205.3279 Meeting ID: 287-440-3084
Thursdays, 10am – 11am EDT: Yoga on Facebook (Offered through Toivo)
Access by Web: facebook.com/toivocenter/
Fridays, 10:30am – 11:30am EDT: Trauma Sensitive Yoga with Cate* Access by Web
- 3:30pm: Guided Relaxation* (Offered thru Rockland Peer Support Center)
Access by Web, Access by Phone: 929 205 6099, Meeting ID: 112 292 013
*Make sure you are in a space where you can lie down once you have logged in!
Saturdays, 9:30am – 11:30am EDT: Qi Gong and Tea
Access by Web, Access by Phone: 646 876 9923, Meeting ID: 735 219 697
Adrenaline Management & Grounding Techniques – Wednesday, April 8th
4:00-5:00pm Eastern Standard Time, All Genders Welcome, Ages 14+
* Discuss the various ways adrenaline can affect the body and behaviors
* Gain skills to identify and understand different stress responses
* Learn grounding techniques to help positively provide yourself with support during uncomfortable or stressful situations
Assertiveness & Boundary Setting for TEENS* – Friday, April 10th
2:00-3:30pm Eastern Standard Time, All Genders Welcome, Teens Ages 14-18
* Learn how to speak up for yourself without disrespecting other people
* Gain the skills to say what you want and need
* Learn strategies to keep yourself calm when conversations get stressful
To join:
https://zoom.us/j/6358907961
If you need to join by phone:
Dial: 646-558-8656
When you get the recorded message dial: 6358907961#
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Intimate Partner Violence / Survivor Resources
(More needed; please email us at commission@ma-lgbtq.org to add)
To find space in a DV shelter, call SafeLink at 877-785-2020
Boston Area Rape Crisis Center – is still operating its hotlines and offering online support
The Network/La Red is a survivor-led, social justice organization that works to end partner abuse in lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, SM, polyamorous, and queer communities.
The Center for Hope & Healing – 24/7 hotline at 800-542-5212; web chat available Mon-Fri 9-5. LGB/T-inclusive DV/SA services for the Greater Merrimack Valley.
NYC Alliance Instagram – Great information to support people experiencing or survivors of abuse
Respond Inc – still operating 24/7 hotline as a resource for victims to turn to, call (617)-623-5900
Harm Reduction
Framingham & Boston GLASS – Program RISE & Framingham GLASS Supplies Request, El Formulario En Español
If you live in the MetroWest, you can have supplies sent to you. Options of items include external and internal condoms, sharps containers, cottons, cookers, sterile water (etc), wound care kits, lube, gloves, dams, and Narcan. Syringes can be sent to those in Framingham only.
Tapestry Health – started implementing prevention measures, including screening procedures at all Tapestry locations, increased disinfection and social distancing protocols, and cancelling or postponing all public events. We are rescheduling nonessential appointments to minimize contact and exposure. Please call ahead before coming to any Tapestry sites, office phone numbers can be found here: tapestryhealth.org/find-us.
Recovery Services
Online Alcoholics Anonymous
Online Narcotics Anonymous
NA meeting search
SMART Recovery online community
Private, convenient, online recovery support
Apps for alcohol addiction recovery
Sober Grid app
In the Rooms: Global Recovery Community
Everyday (Mon – Sunday), 9am, 12pm, 4pm, 9pm EDT: All Recovery (Offered through WEconnect and Unity Recovery) Access by Web
Mondays,
- 7am – 830am EDT: Narcotics Anonymous JFT/Topic Group – access by web
- 12pm – 130pm EDT: Narcotics Anonymous Rotating Group – access by web
- 12pm – 1pm EDT: All Pathways to Recovery (Offered through Steprox) Access by Web, Access by Phone: 929.205.6099, Meeting ID: 335 929 911
- 12pm – 1pm EDT: Dual Recovery Anonymous (Offered through the Metro Boston Recovery Learning Community) Access by web, Access by phone: 646.558.8656, Meeting ID: 313 065 661
- 1pm to 2:30pm EDT: Supporting People Struggling with Substances* Access by web, Access by phone: 646.876.9923, Toll free access: 888.205.3279 Meeting ID: 299 310 673
- 2pm EDT: AA Meeting by phone (Offered through Pause a While) Access by Phone: 425.436.6360, Access Code: 422932#
Tuesdays,
- 12pm-130pm EDT: Narcotics Anonymous Topic/Spiritual Principles Group Access by Web
- 2pm EDT: AA Meeting by phone (Offered through Pause a While), Access by Phone: 425.436.6360, Access Code: 422932#
- 6:30pm – 8pm EDT: Smart Recovery (Offered through the Recovery Outreach Community Center), Access by Web
- 7pm EDT: Psych Drug Support Group* (For people withdrawing from, making changes to, or otherwise examining their relationship to psychiatric drugs) Access: E-mail zoe@westernmassrlc.org or jeanmarie@westernmassrlc.org for login and other details
Wednesdays,
- 12pm-130pm ET: Narcotics Anonymous JFT/ESH/Topic Group access by web
- 2pm EDT: AA Meeting by phone (Offered through Pause a While), Access by Phone: 425.436.6360, Access Code: 422932#
- 7:30pm – 8:30pm EDT: The Quarantined AA Group, access by web, access by phone: 646.876.9923, Meeting ID: 141 145 456
- 9pm – 10pm EDT: Dual Diagnosis Anonymous (Offered through the Recovery Outreach Community Center): Access by Web
Thursdays,
- 12pm – 1pm EDT: Dual Recovery Anonymous (Offered through Metro Boston Recovery Learning Community) Access by web, Access by phone: 646.558.8656, Meeting ID: 520 449 255
- 12-130pm ET: Narcotics Anonymous Steps & Principles Group access by web
- 2pm EDT: AA Meeting by phone (Offered through Pause a While) Access by Phone: 425.436.6360, Access Code: 422932#
Fridays,
- 10am EDT Narcotics Anonymous Rotating Group, access by web
- 11am EDT Narcotics Anonymous Ask it Basket Group, access by web
- 12pm EDT Narcotics Anonymous Step Working Guide Study Group, access by web
- 1pm to 2:30pm EDT: Supporting People Struggling with Substances* Access by web, Access by phone: 646.876.9923, Toll free access: 888.205.3279, Meeting ID: 808 576 588
- Fridays, 2pm EDT: AA Meeting by phone (Offered through Pause a While) Access by Phone: 425.436.6360 Access Code: 422932#
Saturdays,
- 12pm EDT Narcotics Anonymous JFT/Topic Group, access by web
- 1:30pm – 2:30pm EDT: Dual Diagnosis Anonymous (Offered through the Recovery Outreach Community Center): Access by Web
- 2pm EDT: AA Meeting by phone (Offered through Pause a While) Access by Phone: 425.436.6360 Access Code: 422932#
- 6:30pm – 8pm EDT: Smart Recovery (Offered through the Recovery Outreach Community Center): Access by Web
Sundays,
- 12pm EDT Narcotics Anonymous Steps & Principles Group, access by web
- 2pm EDT: AA Meeting by phone (Offered through Pause a While) Access by Phone: 425.436.6360 Access Code: 422932#
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Donating or Taking Action
COVID-19 Resource Guide (Massachusetts)
GoFundMe for incarcerated LGBTQI+ folks in Massachusetts
Mutual Aid for LGBTQI-BIPOC Folks – Contribute to this mutual aid GoFundMe. Requests for aid are unfortunately closed, but contributions are being accepted to meet the need for requests already received.
MA Homeless Coalition COVID-19 Donation Page
Stonewall Community Foundation’s Emergency Response Fund is distributing funds where they are most needed to their hundreds of grantees – organizations serving the LGBTQ community all over the countr
