LGBTQ Coronavirus Resources — NYC Unity Project

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the NYC Unity Project surveyed hundreds of LGBTQ program and service providers across New York City to develop this resource page, which includes up-to-date information on LGBTQ resources still available during the COVID-19 pandemic.

If you notice resources that are missing or you have additional updates to share, please contact the team at the NYC Mayor’s Office for Economic Opportunity at [email protected]

Mental Health

For official, general up-to-date information on mental health and wellness resources provided by NYC, visit the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene website and the NYC Health + Hospitals website.

Mental Health for All

Mental Health

Mental health for All is the City’s newest resource to connect all New Yorkers to mental health services, including help with anxiety, counseling, substance misuse, peer support, and more. You can view services specifically for LGBTQ youth.

Visit Mental Health for All’s LGBTQ services

NYC Well 

Mental Health

NYC Well is your connection to free, confidential mental health support. Speak to a counselor via phone, text, or chat and get access to mental health and substance use services, in more than 200 languages, 24/7/365.

  • To reach NYC Well, call 1-888-NYC-WELL (1-888-692-9355) or text “Well” to 65173

Learn more on their website

 

The Ackerman Institute: Gender and Family Project

Mental Health

The Gender & Family Project (GFP) of the Ackerman Institute provides comprehensive multidisciplinary support services for gender expansive children, transgender adolescents, their families and their communities.  GFP will continue to offer services remotely, including online support groups for youth and families, as well as individual and family therapy services.

Learn more on their website

 

The Trevor Project

Mental Health

The Trevor Project provides crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to LGBTQ youth ages 16–25. The Trevor Project is continuing to operate their 24-hour helplines. Young people can also access the virtual support center linked below for additional COVID-19 resources. 

  • If you are considering suicide and need immediate support, call the TrevorLifeline at 1-866-488-7386 (available 24/7)
  • Services are also available 24/7 by chat at TrevorChat (website below) and TrevorText (Text “Start” to 678678) 

Learn more on their website

 

Trans Lifeline

Mental Health, Peer and Community Support

Trans Lifeline’s Hotline is a peer support service run by trans people, for trans and questioning callers. Operators are located all over the U.S. and Canada and are all trans-identified. If you are in crisis or just need someone to talk to, even if it’s just about whether or not you’re trans, please call. 

  • If you are in crisis or need immediate support, call the Trans Lifeline at 877-565-8860. While the hotline is open 24/7, EST operators are guaranteed to be on line from 10am–4am.

Learn more on their website

 

Rainbow Heights Club (RHC)

Mental Health

Rainbow Heights Club provides advocacy, socialization and support to lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people who are living with serious mental illness. RHC is currently closed for in-person services but continues to offer weekly telephone support groups and connection to services by telephone. 

  • To reach the Rainbow Heights Club, call Eddie Hardaway at 718-852-2584 Ext. 109

Learn more on their website

 

Callen Lorde Community Health Center

Mental Health, Physical Health and Wellness

Callen–Lorde Community Health Center provides sensitive, quality health care and related services for New York’s lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender community. Callen-Lorde is experiencing changes in staffing due to COVID-19 and is no longer taking walk-ins, but they are conducting intake by phone and operating limited in-person hours. 

  • For medical services and intake, call 212-271-7200 
  • For prescriptions and pharmacy questions, call 877-436-4352
  • In-person services offered in Manhattan and the Bronx

Learn more on their website

 

The LGBT Center

Mental Health, Peer and Community Support

The Center fosters a welcoming environment where everyone is celebrated for who they are. They offer New York’s LGBTQ communities with advocacy, health and wellness programs; arts, entertainment and cultural events; 12-step recovery support; and parenthood and family support services. The LGBT Center has closed in-person services and is offering remote service navigation around legal assistance, mental health connections, HIV and STI testing, housing, immigration, and youth services.

Learn more on their website

 

Latino Commission on AIDS

Mental Health

The Latino Commission on AIDS is an advocacy and service nonprofit membership organization offering a range of HIV prevention and treatment programming and services. They are offering virtual counseling from 12pm–6pm on oasiscenter.nyc. You can visit the website and chat virtually or through FaceTime with any of their navigators. They are currently navigating people for mental health services, and PrEP/PEP services.

  • To contact The Latino Commission on AIDS call 212-584-9325

Learn more on their website

 

EXPONENTS

Mental Health, Physical Health and Wellness, Peer and Community Support

EXPONENTS is dedicated to serving those impacted by HIV/AIDS, substance use, incarceration, and behavioral health challenges. EXPONENTS is currently offering programs and services virtually, including drug treatment, recovery support and mental health services. 

Learn more on their website

 

Bridging Access to Care

Mental Health, Physical Health and Wellness

Bridging Access to Care is a treatment and health service organization providing comprehensive HIV/AIDS and mental health and substance abuse related services. Case management services (LGBTQ program-specific) and in-person groups for substance use (not LGBTQ-specific) are both currently offered in person. Behavioral health case management for the LGBTQ community is offered four days a week, with remote group sessions and individual sessions via Telehealth case manager on site from 9:30am to 5:30pm.

Learn more on their website

 

STAR Program (SUNY DownState Health Services Center)

Mental Health, Peer and Community Support

The STAR Health Center (SHC) offers a full complement of primary care and specialty services including HIV screening and treatment, HCV screening and treatment, behavioral health and a specialized LGBT Health Initiative. Screening for medical and counseling sessions are still available by phone. Some on-site services are still available Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm.

  • To reach the STAR Program, call 718-270-3745
  • In-person services are currently offered in Brooklyn

Learn more on their website

 

Brooklyn Community Pride Center

Peer and Community Support, Health and Wellness, Mental Health

The Brooklyn Community Pride Center provides services and support to the borough’s LGBTQ+ community through original programming and partnerships with other organizations. Brooklyn Community Pride Center has moved most of their community programs to a virtual platform, including peer support groups, classes, and other virtual opportunities to connect with community members.

Learn more on their website

 

Hetrick-Martin Institute (HMI)

Physical Health and Wellness, Peer and Community Support, Mental Health 

Hetrick-Martin offers services and support to create a safe and affirming environment for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ) youth ages 13–24 and their families. HMI has a full staff of Counselors (MSW/LCSW and a psychiatrist on staff) ready to provide free counseling services to any person ages 13–25 who needs them.

Learn more on their website

 

Caribbean Equality Project

Peer and Community Support; Mental Health; Financial Help 

The Caribbean Equality Project advocates for Caribbean LGBTQ+ immigrant voices in NYC. They offer NYC’s intersectional and diverse Caribbean LGBTQ+ communities advocacy, support groups, mental health services, arts, and entertainment and cultural events. Caribbean Equality Project has closed in-person services and is offering COVID-19 Emergency Financial Relief and remote services around legal assistance, mental health resources, HIV and STI testing, immigration, and 2020 Census education.

  • To contact Caribbean Equality Project, call 347-709-3179 or email [email protected]
  • You can also send a message on Instagram @CaribbeanEqualityProject 

Learn more on their website


New Alternatives for Children Inc.

Peer and Professional Support ; Mental Health; Food Assistance; Physical Health and Wellness 

New Alternatives for Children Inc. (NAC) is a health and child welfare agency primarily serving children and youth with special healthcare needs and their families. NAC’s Safe Haven Program serves LGBTQI children and youth and their families, ensuring children and youth are affirmed in their sexual orientation and gender identity/expression and helping families get to a more affirming place. NAC is providing virtual services wherever possible and is  providing in-person services when that is the only option. 

Learn more on their website

 

Harlem United

Physical Health and Wellness, Mental Health, Peer and Community Support, Food Assistance 

For the last 30 years, Harlem United has offered LGBTQ-affirmative services in Harlem and the South Bronx. It supports underserved communities with chronic conditions such as serious mental illness, HIV, Hepatitis C (HCV), and substance use, as they face extreme poverty, food insecurity, and homelessness. During the current COVID-19 crisis, they’re offering virtual and in-person services, including LGBTQ-focused support groups, homeless services, HIV- and HCV-related specialty medical services, housing, daily grab-and-go meals, weekly food pantry, and mobile syringe exchange.

  •  For primary care (virtual and in-person), dental, behavioral healthcare (virtual and in-person), support groups (virtual), care coordination (virtual), and substance use recovery support, request an appointment here.
  • In-person primary care and dental services is offered at The Nest Community Health Center, 169 West 133rd Street, Monday–Friday from 8:30am to 5pm.
  • Pantry food bags are available for pick-up at Willis Green Jr. Community Health Center 123-125 on W 124th Street, Thursdays from 11:15am to 2:30pm.
  • Mobile Syringe Exchange is operating outside of 290 Malcolm X Blvd., on Tuesdays at 9am–4:30pm. The mobile unit will also be at Coney Island every other Thursday at 11am–3pm and on East Tremont in the Bronx every Friday at 9am–3pm.

Learn more on their website

 

Alcohol Help

Mental Health 

Alcohol Help is an educational tool to inform the public on all of the issues surrounding alcohol use disorders. Their goal is to educate and prevent chemical dependency from harming more people, since knowledge is power and prevention is awareness.

 Learn more on their website

Physical Health & Wellness

For official up-to-date information on physical health and wellness resources provided by NYC, including information on COVID-19 precautions and testing, visit the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene and the NYC Health and Hospitals website.

 

The Pride Health Centers at NYC Health + Hospitals

Telemedicine, Physical Health and Wellness

NYC Health + Hospitals/Gotham Health, Judson provides sexual/reproductive health services, LGBTQ affirming care, and mental health support for New York City’s adolescents and emerging adults. Throughout the COVID-19 emergency, urgently needed sexual/reproductive health services, LGBTQ affirming care, and mental health support are available via the Pride Health Center at NYC Health + Hospitals/Gotham Health, Judson. While the services provided at Judson are geared toward adolescents and emerging adults, patients of all ages are welcome to call for access to care during the COVID-19 emergency.

  • The following services are available: STI testing and treatment; emergency contraception and birth control; PrEP/PEP; urgent GYN needs; gender affirming care, including hormone therapy, pregnancy testing and options counseling; and mental health support.
  • All initial screenings are done over the phone. To access care, call 212-925-5000 (after the language prompt, press 3 to speak with a nurse).
  • The Judson team has temporarily relocated to NYC Health + Hospitals/Gouverneur (227 Madison Street), where in-person visits will take place if medically necessary.
  • If you have additional questions, e-mail [email protected].
  • In-person services currently offered in Manhattan.

Learn more on their website

 

Hetrick Martin Institute (HMI)

Physical Health and Wellness, Peer and Community Support, Mental Health

Hetrick-Martin offers services and support to create a safe and affirming environment for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ) youth ages 13–24 and their families. While many HMI programs are currently off-line, many programs have transitioned to virtual programming, including counseling by phone or text and medical support and referrals.

  • To contact the Hetrick-Martin Institute, call 212-674-2400

Learn more on their website

 

Callen Lorde Community Health Center

Mental Health, Physical Health and Wellness 

Callen–Lorde Community Health Center provides sensitive, quality health care and related services for New York’s lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender community. Callen-Lorde is experiencing changes in staffing due to COVID-19 and is no longer taking walk-ins, but they are conducting intake by phone and operating limited in-person hours.

  • For Medical services,call 212-271-7200
  • For prescriptions, call 877-436-4352
  • In-person services offered in Manhattan and the Bronx

Learn more on their website

 

The LGBT Center

Physical Health and Wellness  

The Center fosters a welcoming environment where everyone is celebrated for who they are. They offer the LGBTQ communitiy of NYC advocacy, health and wellness programs; arts, entertainment and cultural events; recovery, parenthood and family support services. The LGBT Center has closed for in-person services but is offering service navigation by phone for legal assistance, mental health connections, HIV and STI testing, housing, immigration, and youth services.

  • To reach the Center, call 212-620-7310 from 9am–10pm, Monday through Saturday, and 9am–9pm on Sundays
  • Community members can receive a sexual health referral to APICHA Community Health by calling 212-334-6029
  • Learn about upcoming virtual events

Learn more on their website

 

Gay Men’s Health Crisis (GMHC)

Physical Health and Wellness 

GMHC is the world’s first and leading provider of HIV/AIDS prevention, care, and advocacy. As a result of COVID-19, GMHC is actively working to support its clients virtually. Many of GMHC’s core programs and services remain active, including medical intake, virtual groups, housing support and more.

Learn more on their website

 

Lennox Hill Hospital (The Friedman Transgender Program for Health and Wellness)

Telemedicine, Physical Health and Wellness 

The Friedman Transgender Program for Health and Wellness offers comprehensive care in a safe, non-judgmental environment for transgender and gender nonconforming communities. They are now offering telehealth services. If you live in NYC and do not currently have a doctor or can’t access your doctor, they can help you with essential transgender health services via telemedicine, phone, or in-person appointments. 

  • To schedule an appointment, contact Deeangelys Colon, Program Coordinator at 212-434-3556 
  • In-person services currently offered in Manhattan 

Learn more on their website

 

APICHA Community Health Center

Telemedicine, Physical Health and Wellness 

APICHA provides clinical and community health care and support services, including in their transgender health program. They are currently offering telemedicine primary care and other services, including HIV services, PrEP/PEP, mental health care, HIV/STD testing, and non-medical services including SNAP enrolment, insurance enrollment, and other community support. They will be providing limited in-person services. 

  • To contact APICHA Community Health Center, call 866-274-2429
  • In-person services currently offered in Manhattan 

Learn more on their website

 

Community Healthcare Network (CHN)

Telemedicine, Physical Health and Wellness

Community Healthcare Network provides primary care, mental health, and social services in every borough of New York City, including transgender-affirming care offered in both English and Spanish. CHN has continued to offer in-person services Monday–Friday, 9am–5pm at some but not all of their locations. They are also offering telemedicine appointments.

  • To contact Community Healthcare Network, call 866-246-8259
  • In-person services currently offered in Manhattan and Brooklyn

Learn more on their website

 

HEAT

Physical Health and Wellness, Peer and Community Support

HEAT provides culturally competent health care and support for heterosexual, lesbian, gay, bisexuals, and transgender youth who are living with or at very high-risk for HIV/AIDS. Due to the current state of emergency related to the coronavirus, HEAT is temporarily suspending all community-based activities, but their clinic will remain open and they will be taking appointments and answering questions by phone.

Learn more on their website

 

Bridging Access to Care

Mental Health, Physical Health and Wellness 

Bridging Access to Care is a treatment and health service organization providing comprehensive HIV/AIDS, mental health and substance abuse related services. Case management services (LGBTQ program-specific) and in person groups for substance use (not LGBTQ-specific) are both currently offered in person. Behavioral health case management for the LGBTQ community will be offered 4 days a week with remote group session individual sessions via Telehealth case manager on site 9:30am to 5:30pm.

Learn more on their website

 

CAMBA

Telemedicine, Physical Health and Wellness, Food

CAMBA is a non-profit agency that with over 160 program and services sites across NYC connecting people to healthcare, education and youth development, family support, legal services and housing services. They have amended some services due to COVID-19, offering some online and some still in-person.

  • For help accessing the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), call 718-826-2223, ext. 40226
  • For access to CAMBA’s Beyond Hunger Food Pantry, which remains open and continues to provide food for clients on an emergency basis, call 718-282-3082. The pantry is located at 21 Snyder Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11226
  • If you have experienced sexual assault or violence, and need free, confidential support, call CAMBA’s Sexual Assault Hotline at 800-310-2449
  • For general information, e-mail [email protected]
  • In-person services currently offered in Manhattan and Brooklyn

Learn more on their website

 

Diaspora Community Services

Physical Health and Wellness 

Diaspora Community Services is a social support service agency that offers culturally responsive programming and services, including HIV prevention, health navigation, and health support. Diaspora will not be conducting in-person services at this time, but they are conducting weekly instagram live sessions and regularly posting helpful sexual health information and guidelines.

  • To contact Diaspora Community Services, call 718-399-0200  
  • In-person services currently offered in Manhattan and Brooklyn

Learn more on their website

 

Housing Works

Food, Physical Health and Wellness, Peer Support

Housing Works is a healing community of people living with and affected by HIV/AIDS. Our mission is to end the dual crises of homelessness and AIDS through relentless advocacy, the provision of lifesaving services, and entrepreneurial businesses that sustain our efforts.

Housing Works Primary Care locations are open at 743 East 9th Street in Manhattan; 120 Lawrence Street in Brooklyn; and 2640 Pitkin Avenue in Brooklyn. Housing Works is operating a food pantry at 1731 Park Avenue in Manhattan. Housing Works also holds weekly care coordination and support meetings for TGNC communities members called Tranquaili-T. 

Learn more on their website

 

Brooklyn Community Pride Center

Peer and Community Support, Health and Wellness, Mental Health

The Brooklyn Community Pride Center provides services and support to the borough’s LGBTQ+ community through original programming and partnerships with other organizations. Brooklyn Community Pride Center has moved most of their community programs to a virtual platform, including peer support groups, classes, and other virtual opportunities to connect with community members.

Learn more on their website

 

The LGBT Network 

Peer and Community Support; Physical Health and Wellness 

The LGBT Network is a non-profit that’s a home and voice for LGBT people, their families, and their support systems in Long Island and Queens. All of their services have temporarily been moved to virtual platforms. They provide virtual group sessions, including health education, TGNCNB support, leadership training, and Spanish speaking services, as well as medical linkages to HIV prevention, care, and treatment, mental health referrals, and health insurance enrollment to the NY State of Health, Medicaid, and Child Health Plus. Free immigration navigation and referral services are also available.

Learn more on their website

 

Peer & Community Support

For official up-to-date information and resources particularly relevant for immigrant communities, visit the Mayor’s Office of Immigration Affairs.

For information on services and support for New Yorkers experiencing domestic and gender-based violence, visit the Mayor’s Office to End Domestic and Gender-Based Violence and learn more about services available through the NYC Family Justice Centers. You can also call NYC’s 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline 800-621-4673.

 

Brooklyn Community Pride Center

Peer and Community Support, Health and Wellness, Mental Health

The Brooklyn Community Pride Center provides services and support to the borough’s LGBTQ+ community through original programming and partnerships with other organizations. Brooklyn Community Pride Center has moved most of their community programs to a virtual platform, including peer support groups, classes, and other virtual opportunities to connect with community members.

Learn more on their website

 

Leslie-Lohman Museum of Art

Community Support

The Leslie-Lohman Museum of Art provides a platform for artistic exploration through multi-faceted queer perspectives. The museum is currently offering virtual events that focus on queer arts within our communities. 

Learn more on their website

Pride Center of Staten Island

Peer and Community Support, Family Support

The Pride Center of Staten Island provides high-quality, life-enriching LGBTQ programs and events. Pride Center programs have moved to digital platforms, including peer support groups, events, and other peer support programs. The Pride Center’s Virtual Front Desk will have contact hours from 10am–4pm, Tuesdays–Saturdays.

Learn more on their website

 

Generation Q at the Queens Community House

Peer and Community Support

Generation Q is an after-school youth center for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer youth and allies, between the ages of 13 and 21. Generation Q is currently offering a daily (Monday–Friday) chat server on discord for youth ages 13–21. They have structured programming in the afternoons/evenings over discord or zoom. Contact them directly to be added to the ongoing groups.

Learn more on their website

 

Destination Tomorrow

Peer and Community Support

Destination Tomorrow is the Bronx LGBTQ Community Center. They provide support services, education and support programs for the LGBTQ community in the Bronx. Due to COVID-19, all programs, drop-in services, meetings, events, and groups are cancelled until further notice. During this time, they will not be accepting any new clients. Destination Tomorrow staff will be assisting current clients for emergency services only via telephone or video conferencing.

Learn more on their website

 

The LGBT Center

Peer and Community Support, Mental Health 

The Center fosters a welcoming environment where everyone is celebrated for who they are. They  offer the LGBTQ community of NYC advocacy, health and wellness programs; arts, entertainment and cultural events; recovery, parenthood and family support services. The LGBT Center has closed for in-person services but is offering service navigation around legal assistance, mental health connections, HIV and STI testing, housing, immigration, substance use support, and youth services. The Center is continuing to offer many online peer support groups and events. 

Learn more on their website

 

NYC Anti-Violence Project (AVP)

Peer and Community Support

AVP empowers lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and HIV-affected communities and allies to end all forms of violence through organizing and education, and supporting survivors through counseling and advocacy. AVP will be offering services remotely through their 24/7 English-Spanish hotline, including counseling, safety planning, and taking reports on violence and harassment incidents.

Learn more on their website

 

PFLAG

Family Support

PFLAG NYC’s mission is to create a better future for lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) youth and adults through a partnership of parents, allies, and LGBT people. PFLAG is now offering online support groups for parents and family members of LGBTQ youth, in both English and Spanish. More information about times, dates, and sign up are available on their website. 

Learn more on their website

 

Hetrick-Martin Institute (HMI)

Physical Health and Wellness, Peer and Community Support, Mental Health

Hetrick-Martin creates a safe and supportive environment for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ) youth ages 13–24 and their families. Many programs have transitioned to virtual programming, including ongoing peer support groups and youth activities, including virtual art classes, book clubs, counseling groups, and other fun and supportive group activities.

  • To contact the Hetrick-Martin Institute, call 212-674-2400

Learn more on their website

 

Out in Tech

Peer and Community Support

Out in Tech is a non-profit organization committed to virtually connecting the LGBTQ+ tech community. They have active chapters across the country and are offering weekly events and opportunities to connect online, including special programs for community members, via zoom during the COVID pandemic. 

Learn more on their website

 

SAGE

Peer and Community Support

SAGE is the country’s largest and oldest organization dedicated to improving the lives of lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) older adults. NYC SAGE Centers are closed until further notice. All social services will be provided via telephone. SAGE will continue to provide the most up-to-date information about how to stay safe and announce when they are reopening via email, the SAGE blog and NYC Facebook page.

Learn more on their website

 

Live Out Loud

Peer and Community Support

Live Out Loud is dedicated to inspiring and empowering LGBTQ youth by connecting them with successful LGBTQ professionals in their community. They are offering ongoing virtual events. Please refer to the website for more information about virtual program updates.

Learn more on their website

 

Girls for Gender Equity

Peer and Community Support

Girls for Gender Equity (GGE) is dedicated to strengthening local communities by creating opportunities for young women and girls to live self-determined lives. GGE will continue to offer youth services, and is developing digital resources that will be regularly updated on their website.

Learn more on their website

 

TransLatinx Network

Peer and Community Support

Translatinx Network has both a local and national focus, with a mission to promote the healthy development of trans people through the delivery of a wide range of information and services. They are continuing to provide virtual services and support groups for trans community members.  

Learn more on their website

Drag Queen Story Hour

Education

Drag Queen Story Hour (DQSH) NYC provides a range of fun and fabulous educational experiences for children and teens from 3 to 18 years old. Drag Queen Story Hour is providing livestream Drag Queen Story Hour events on Facebook and Instagram. They are also offering virtual interactive DQSH events via Zoom.

Learn more on their website

 

The Door

Peer and Community Support

The Door empowers young people to reach their potential by providing comprehensive youth development services in a diverse and caring environment. The Door’s in-person services are currently closed, but they are providing fun and supportive weekly online events for youth, available on their website.

Learn more on their website


GRIOT Circle 

Peer and Community Support

GRIOT (Gay Reunion In Our Time) Circle is a grassroots organization formed so that all LGBTQ elders of color experience a just and abundant quality of life. GRIOT offers a range of services, including case management, health support, peer support groups, mental health services and community events. GRIOT and Stonewall Village NYC are providing virtual housing and health assistance, classes, tutorials and social  support groups for older LGBTQ New Yorkers, available at the website below. 

Learn more on their website

 

Youth Represent

Legal, Peer and Community Support

Youth Represent is dedicated to improving the lives and futures of young people affected by the criminal justice system. Youth Represent is providing virtual and online services to youth (ages 16–24), particularly to those who identify as LGBTQ+ GNC via the Pathways Project. 

Learn more on their website

 

Queer Detainment Project

Peer and Community Support, Legal

The Queer Detainee Empowerment Project (QDEP) assists folks coming out of immigration detention in securing structural, health/wellness, educational, legal, and housing services. Due to the current outbreak of COVID-19, the Queer Detainee Empowerment Project’s offices are closed and all upcoming events are cancelled until further notice. 

Learn more on their website

 

Safe Horizon

Peer and Community Support

Safe Horizon is a nonprofit organization providing social services for survivors of abuse and violent crime in 57 locations throughout the five boroughs of New York City. Safe Horizon has suspended most in-person programming, but they are continuing to operate a Spanish and English-language 24/7 hotline. 

Learn more on their website

 

The LGBT Network 

Peer and Community Support; Physical Health and Wellness 

The LGBT Network is a non-profit that’s a home and voice for LGBT people, their families, and their support systems in Long Island and Queens. All of their services have temporarily been moved to virtual platforms. They provide virtual group sessions, including health education, TGNCNB support, leadership training, and Spanish speaking services, as well as medical linkages to HIV prevention, care, and treatment, mental health referrals, and health insurance enrollment to the NY State of Health, Medicaid, and Child Health Plus. Free immigration navigation and referral services are also available.

Learn more on their website


Black Trans Media 

Peer and Community Support 

Black Trans Media is a project based in Bedstuy, Brooklyn led by and for Black Trans and Gender Non-Conforming (TGNC) youth and community. The project works at the intersections of arts, media, education, and organizing to address racism and transphobia.

Black Trans Media offers mutual aid support, economic support, media production, leadership development, food justice (including hot food and groceries), advocacy, community organizing, healing space, social support space, arts/expression, and referrals to resources. They are also holding virtual Saturday Social Support Spaces for Black TGNC People at 2–4pm and Evening Open Mics at 8pm along with other virtual events. 

Learn more on their website 

Overdose Prevention

Learn about the types of care and services available for problematic alcohol or drug use. Services vary depending on how serious your needs are and your circumstances. Addiction is a treatable health condition. Learn more from the NYC Health website.

If you’re experiencing an overdose right now, dial 911. Call without the fear of arrest thanks to NY’s 911 Good Samaritan Law.

Learn More and Get Help Now

Detox Local 

Mental Health

Detox Local is an online resource featuring medically reviewed guides that cover every aspect of the drug and alcohol withdrawal process. Detox can be fatal. This resource empowers members of the LGBTQ community to take the medically safe route when quitting drugs and alcohol.

Learn more on their website

Food Assistance

For official up-to-date information on free food resources provided by NYC, visit the NYC Food Assistance Resource Page. This site provides information on where and when all New Yorkers can get free food at locations across New York City. For urgent food and hunger needs, call the Emergency Food Hotline at 866-888-8777 or dial 311.

 

LGBTQ Food Assistance 

Food

The NYC Unity Project and the Department of Social Services have developed a list of food pantries and soup kitchens that explicitly encourage LGBTQ community members to participate. This list is always growing. For help finding a food assistance provider near you, please see our LGBTQ Food Assistance page.

Visit the LGBTQ Food Assistance page

 

SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)

Food

You can apply for all Cash Assistance, SNAP, and Medicaid renewal programs at the same time through the Cash Assistance application on ACCESS HRA. The NYC Human Resources Administration (HRA) will only offer in-person services at some locations (details available on the website below) until further notice. 

Learn more on ACCESS NYC

 

The Sylvia Rivera Food Pantry

Food

The Sylvia Rivera Food Pantry is offering a grocery delivery service for people who are unable to leave their house due to COVID-19. Grocery delivery is offered on a case to case basis to the unemployed, LGBTQI+ people of color, students, freelance workers, senior citizens and those who are marginalized or on a limited income.

  • Complete the Google Form for services
  • For more information, call 212-629-7440 or e-mail Sergio Mota at [email protected]  
  • The food pantry is located at 446 West 36th Street in Manhattan
  • In-person services currently offered in Manhattan

 

God’s Love We Deliver

Food

The mission of God’s Love We Deliver is to improve the health and well-being of men, women and children living with HIV/AIDS, cancer and other serious illnesses by alleviating hunger and malnutrition. They cook and home-delivers nutritious, medically tailored meals. As a result of COVID-19, they are still delivering hot meals to seniors and adults facing serious illnesses. Their processing time for new applications is currently two weeks.

  • New clients can access a new client Application Packet online
  • To contact God’s Love We Deliver, call 212-294-8100
  • In-person services currently offered citywide

Learn more on their website

 

World Central Kitchens (WCK)

Food

WCK distributes thousands of fresh, individually packaged grab-and-go meals to local families. These meals are available to anyone in the area who needs extra support during this uncertain time. Using their expertise as a food logistics organization, they are distributing meals at the designated sites listed on their website. 

  • To contact WCK, call 202-844-6330
  • In-person services currently offered in The Bronx, Queens, Manhattan and Brooklyn

Learn more on their website

 

Project Hospitality

Food, Physical Health and Wellness 

Project Hospitality seeks to reach community members who are hungry, homeless or otherwise in need in order to work with them to achieve their self-sufficiency. They are currently providing phone and video services and running a food pantry on Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 9 to 11am in Staten Island.

  • To contact Project Hospitality, call 718-273-6737
  • In-person services currently offered in Staten Island

Learn more on their website

 

AIDS Center of Queens County 

Food

The AIDS Center of Queens County provides comprehensive medical care, case management, harm reduction and syringe exchange, health education and prevention services, transitional and permanent housing services, legal services, a licensed mental health clinic, and a food pantry program. They are continuing to run their food pantry at 161-21 Jamaica Avenue in Queens on Tuesdays and Thursday, 8:30–10am (no ID required).

  • To contact ACQC, call 718-896-2500
  • In-person services currently offered in Queens

Learn more on their website

Legal Help

Discrimination and harassment on the basis of race, national origin, immigration status, age, sexual orientation, gender, and disability, including if you have COVID-19 or another serious illness, is illegal under the New York City Human Rights Law.

If you have experienced discrimination or harassment in housing, employment, or in public accommodations, such as in medical settings, visit the at New York City Commission on Human Rights, call 311 and ask for “human rights,” or call 212-416-0197.

 

NYC Office for the Prevention of Hate Crimes (OPHC)

Legal Help, Peer and Community Support

The New York City Commission on Human Rights (CCHR), the Office for the Prevention of Hate Crimes (OPHC), and the NYPD are monitoring and responding to reported hate and bias incidents related to COVID-19 and coronavirus.

Learn more on their website

 

ActionNYC

Legal Help

ActionNYC offers free, safe immigration legal help in a network of trusted community organizations and schools. ActionNYC provides free legal screenings to find out if you qualify for any immigration benefit and free legal help from an experienced attorney or accredited representative for a range of cases, including Citizenship,Green card applications and renewals, Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), Temporary Protected Status (TPS) and more!

  • To make an appointment, call 1-800-354-0365 between 9AM-6PM, Monday – Friday or call 311 and say “ActionNYC”

Learn more on their website

City Commission on Human Rights

Legal

The New York City Commission on Human Rights enforces the NYC Human Rights Law, one of the most comprehensive anti-discrimination laws in the nation. The Law prohibits discrimination in employment, housing (including shelters), and public accommodations (such as hospitals and clinics, restaurants, grocery stores, and taxis)  based on race, national origin, immigration status, age, sexual orientation, gender, disability, among other protected classes. 

The Commission’s COVID-19 Response Team handles incidents of discrimination and harassment connected to the pandemic. 

Learn more on their website

 

New York Legal Assistance Group (NYLAG) LGBT Project

Legal Help

New York Legal Assistance Group (NYLAG) provides free legal services, financial counseling, and advocacy for individuals and families experiencing poverty, including a law project dedicated to support LGBTQ community members. NYLAG has launched the NY COVID-19 Legal Resource  Hotline to help New York City residents impacted by COVID-19 (coronavirus) to get answers to their legal questions. 

  • To reach the hotline contact 929-356-9582; the hotline is available from 10am–1pm, Monday–Friday

Learn more on their website

 

Sylvia Rivera Law Project

Legal Help

The Sylvia Rivera Law Project (SRLP) is a collective organization focused on providing free legal services, engaging in impact litigation, and building community for low-income transgender people and transgender people of color. The SRLP office is currently closed but members and clients are encouraged to contact staff to share any needs they have during this challenging time.

Learn more on their website

 

Legal Aid Society

Legal Help

The Legal Aid Society is the United States’ oldest and largest provider of legal aid to those in poverty in the US. They provide a range of civil legal services in housing, healthcare, employment, immigration, and more. In-person services are currently suspended, but a legal intake line is still open by phone.

  • To contact the Legal Aid Society, call 212-577-3300 and indicate if you need legal assistance so that your call can be forwarded to the appropriate operator

Learn more on their website

 

Peter Cicchino Youth Project

Legal Help

Urban Justice Center’s Peter Cicchino Youth Project (PCYP) provides free civil legal services to homeless and street-involved youth under the age of 25 in New York City. Peter Cicchino Youth Project offices has suspended in-person services, but they are available by e-mail and are monitoring voicemails by phone.

Learn more on their website

 

Make the Road NYC

Legal Help

Make the Road New York is the largest progressive grassroots immigrant-led organization in New York state. They are providing remote support to community members via telephone and web-based services, virtual classrooms, and online organizing. This includes classes, screenings, legal counseling, health access and other services. 

Learn more on their website

 

Transgender Legal Defense and Education Fund (TLDEF)

Legal Assistance

TLDEF provides education on transgender rights and connects low-income trans and non-binary people with pro bono attorneys to assist with legal name changes. TLDEF has prepared a Know Your Rights guide for transgender and non-binary people who are grappling with questions related to employment, housing, health care, identification, and accessing assistance from government agencies among other issues in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. The guide is available in both English and Español on their website. TLDEF’s Name Change Project remains open to conduct intakes.

Learn more on their website

 

Legal Services NYC

Legal

Legal Services NYC (LSNYC) fights poverty and seeks racial, social, and economic justice for low income New Yorkers by providing free legal services. LSNYC also has LGBTQ and HIV/AIDS-specific programs and services. While in-person services are suspended, the Legal Assistance Hotline is still available. 

Learn more on their website

 

Day One

Peer and Community Support, Legal help

Day One partners with youth to end dating abuse and domestic violence through community education, supportive services & legal advocacy. Day One has currently suspended all in-person services, but is working remotely and accepting new clients by phone. 

Learn more on their website

 

Lambda Legal

Legal Help

Lambda Legal is a national organization committed to achieving full recognition of the civil rights of lesbians, gay men, bisexuals, transgender people and everyone living with HIV through impact litigation, education and public policy work. Lambda Legal’s Help desk provides information and resources relating to discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression, and HIV status. The Help Desk is not able to assist with emergencies or immediate requests for legal assistance.

Learn more on their website

 

Transgender Law Center (TLC)

Legal Help

Transgender Law Center (TLC) is the largest national trans-led organization advocating for a world in which all people are free to define themselves and their futures. Grounded in legal expertise and committed to racial justice, TLC employs a variety of community-driven strategies to keep transgender and gender nonconforming people alive, thriving, and fighting for liberation. They are currently hosting weekly community meetings and providing other ongoing virtual resources. 

Learn more on their website

Housing & Shelter

For official up-to-date information on housing, shelter, and homeless services offered by NYC, visit the Department of Homeless Services, Department of Youth and Community Development, and the Department of Housing Preservation and Development.

 

DYCD (Runaway and Homeless Youth Services)

Housing

The Department of Youth and Community Development provides services for youth experiencing homelessness including 24/7 drop-in centers in every single borough and emergency shelter for young people up to age 24. Many services are experiencing limited capacity or have transferred intake to phone. Please see DYCD Updates  for current information on programs’ service delivery changes.

  • Call 311 or DYCD Youth Connect at 1-800-246-4646 to connect to services

Learn more on their website

 

Mayor’s Office to Protect Tenants (MOPT)

Housing 

MOPT is a core part of the City’s strategy to confront the affordable housing crisis. MOPT works across City agencies to make existing anti-harassment and anti-displacement programs better, and create new strategies to root out abuse. Their newly launched Tenant Resource Portal was created to help residential renters access free resources from the City to help prevent evictions and keep tenants stably housed. The portal features an eviction prevention tool to help renters navigate free public and private resources that can stabilize their housing situations.

Learn more on their website 

 

HRA Office of Civil Justice (OCJ) – Housing Legal Hotline

Housing 

During the COVID-19 emergency, free legal advice and assistance related to housing is available to New York City renters through HRA’s Office of Civil Justice (OCJ) via the City’s Tenant Helpline. OCJ’s nonprofit legal provider partners are available by phone Monday–Friday from 9am to 5pm to provide legal help to tenants with questions about eviction, Housing Court or landlord-tenant disputes. Legal advice is free and available regardless of ZIP code, income level, or immigration status.

  • Tenants in need of assistance can call 311 and ask for the Tenant Helpline or email [email protected] for assistance.

Learn more on their website

 

Department of Homeless Services (DHS)

Housing 

DHS operates intake facilities for single adults broken down by binary gender, Men’s and Women’s. LGBTQI community members should enter the facility that best affirms their gender identity. 

  • Individuals and families in need of shelter can contact 311 or consult the DHS website to find the right facility.
  • DHS prohibits discrimination based on gender identity, gender expression, and sexual orientation. Report any concerns to DHS by contacting the Office of the Ombudsman  at 800-994-6494. Please note that due to heavy call volume, wait times may be longer than usual. 
  • Read the DHS Policy on transgender, non-binary and intersex shelter residents rights.

Learn more on their website

 

Ali Forney Center (AFC)

Housing

The Ali Forney Center’s mission is to provide LGBTQ young people housing and a continuum of supportive services to help them thrive and prepare them for independent living. They are still offering in-person services. The Ali Forney Center is still providing emergency shelter, transitional living, and transgender housing and care programs, case management, mental health services, and medical services. Drop-In Services have been moved to a smaller location to promote social distancing, but street homeless clients can access crisis intervention, meals, mental health services, housing referrals, and other services in person or by phone. 

  • To contact AFC, please call 212-222-3427
  • In-person services currently offered in Manhattan

Learn more on their website

 

Princess Janae Place (PJP)

Housing

PJP helps people of trans experience maximize their full potential as they transition from homelessness to independent living. They are working remotely and are not accepting new clients at this time.

Learn more on their website

Financial Help

For official general up-to-date information on applying for benefits, visit Access HRA. For updates around assistance and guidance for businesses impacted by COVID-19, visit the Department of Small Businesses website.

New York State Unemployment 

Financial Help 

If you lost your job and it was not your fault, you might be able to get unemployment insurance. Unemployment insurance will give you some money, based on what you earned. For more information on eligibility and application process, visit Access NYC. 

Learn more on their website

 

NYC Cash Assistance

Financial Help

You can apply for all Cash Assistance, SNAP, and Medicaid renewal programs at the same time through the Cash Assistance application on ACCESS HRA. The NYC Human Resources Administration (HRA) will only offer in-person services at some locations (details available on the website below) until further notice. 

Learn more on ACCESS NYC

 

Funders for LGBTQ Issues

Financial Help 

Funders for LGBTQ Issues is linking community members to foundations to provide relief aid for LGBTQ communities during the COVID-19 pandemic. Their site outlines key funding opportunities and information on how to apply for them, including:

Learn more on their website

Updated January 6, 2022