International Transgender Day of Visibility 2020

Tuesday March 31 is International Transgender Day of Visibility. I have created this fundraiser to support RECLAIM, a nonprofit organization that works to increase mental health support for queer and transgender youth. I hope you will contribute to my fundraiser for RECLAIM

Queer and trans youth are particularly vulnerable to the unintended consequences of social distancing, but RECLAIM’s work is a powerful antidote – helping youth stay connected so they may feel visible, powerful, and alive. 

When you give your financial gift today, YOU will keep this care for queer and trans youth possible. RECLAIM has an immediate need to respond to COVID-19 related insurance revenue losses and significant disrupted anticipated income. 

Much has changed in the world and in Minnesota in the last few weeks. RECLAIM continues to care for our communities with compassion, dignity, and a commitment to providing care regardless of youth and family ability to pay. Clinicians are providing mental health support remotely, weaving together community resources, and facilitating stability for our youth, young adults, and their families. 

Due to systemic oppression and barriers to accessing resources, queer & youth are particularly vulnerable to the impact of COVID- 19:

• 1/3rd of RECLAIM’s clients lack health insurance coverage
• 94% of RECLAIM’s clients had difficulty finding competent therapy prior to RECLAIM
• 21% of LGBTQ people have asthma, compared to 14% of non-LGBTQ people.*
• A disproportionate number of LGBTQ people work in the top 5 industries heavily impacted by COVID- 19, affecting more than 5 million LGBTQ workers or 40% of LGBTQ workers.*

RECLAIM is dedicated to supporting youth to build the rhythm and structure in life that supports wellness in this time of distance. However, many services typically covered by insurance have been supplanted by non-billable services in order to maintain social distancing and comply with the stay-at-home order. RECLAIM's incoming revenue has decreased as client needs grow.

Your support will keep RECLAIM’s sliding fee therapy accessible - in new ways - for the vibrant, vulnerable, and resilient youth of our community.

Thank you for being a partner and for your dedication to queer and trans youth.