LGBTQ Senior Center Collects Donations for Teens in Need

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

LGBTQ SENIOR CENTER COLLECTS DONATIONS FOR TEENS IN NEED

QUEENS, NY (December 19, 2017) - This holiday season, members of the Queens Center for Gay Seniors (QCGS) have come together to collect donations for an LGBTQ youth center in Forest Hills.  Both centers are operated by local nonprofit, Queens Community House (QCH). Many of the young participants, most of whom identify as transgender, lack basic necessities, like toiletries and bedding, and are at risk of negative health consequences as a result.

Memories of growing up gay, lesbian, bisexual, and/or transgender inspired the group of QCGS participants to respond. “I remember what it felt like to be young and have to fend for myself” one senior said. “I felt like I had no one to turn to. I’m glad these kids have a center where they can get the help they need.” The seniors have started collecting toiletries, clothing, snacks, blankets, and holiday wish list items at three locations in Queens.

One donation included coats, sanitary products and chest binders, which are commonly used by transgender youth. Another donor sent in homemade toiletry kits. QCGS participants hosted a fundraiser to purchase gift cards to be used for meals and clothing.

QCGS will host an intergenerational holiday party where items will be handed out to the youth. “It can get cold out there,” said one QCGS participant, “we want these teens to know there is a warmer tomorrow.”

Individuals interested in donating can contact cpitlock@qchnyc.org for more information.

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About Queens Community House: Founded in 1975, Queens Community House, is a multi-site nonprofit organization that offers a wide network of comprehensive services to individuals, families, and communities throughout Queens. From 29 sites in 14 diverse neighborhoods, QCH helps thousands of Queens residents to thrive in school, make healthy life choices, succeed in educating themselves, become engaged citizens, stabilize their housing situations, and make the most of their senior years.  Learn more at www.qchnyc.org.

Contact:

Jennifer Weil, Communications

Queens Community House

108-25 62nd Drive, Forest Hills, NY 11375

Office: (718) 592-5757 Ext. 249

jweil@qchnyc.org