The LGBTQ advocacy and service organization, Baltimore Safe Haven, has announced a significant expansion of its services. This comes with the acquisition and ongoing renovation of a new building located at 806 North Collington Avenue, in close proximity to Johns Hopkins Hospital. The new facility is poised to become a cornerstone in the community, offering an array of resources under one roof.
Named the Mary Lynn Washington Building and the Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation Community Hub and Resource Center, this initiative marks a pivotal development in Baltimore Safe Haven's mission to foster inclusive and secure spaces for the LGBTQ community. According to a statement released by the organization on December 30, the opening of this new center represents a major milestone in their continuing efforts to support marginalized communities.
The expansion of services would not have been achievable without the unwavering support and generosity of community donors, as emphasized in the statement. The contributions of numerous individuals and foundations have been instrumental in making this vision a reality. Among the supporters, Baltimore Safe Haven extends heartfelt thanks to Maryland State Senator Mary Washington, Congressman Kweisi Mfume, Mayor Brandon Scott, and various philanthropic foundations such as Borealis Philanthropy, the Astraea Foundation, and the Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation, along with several other community and governmental organizations.
The newly acquired premises will be able to accommodate up to 24 individuals in need of transitional or permanent housing. This is a crucial development, as it will also integrate clinical resources on-site. The enhanced facility will provide a comprehensive range of services, including expanded clinical resources in collaboration with the University of Maryland. This partnership aims to deliver mental health and wellness programming, among other essential services.
Comprehensive Support for the LGBTQ Community
Baltimore Safe Haven was founded in 2018 by Iya Dammons, a dedicated advocate for transgender rights. Since its inception, the organization has continually grown to address the pressing needs of the LGBTQ community, particularly focusing on those facing homelessness and housing instability. Through its various programs, Baltimore Safe Haven provides a holistic approach to support, offering mental health services, physical health coordination, workforce development opportunities, legal assistance, and community advocacy and building initiatives.
In addition to the new facility in Baltimore, Safe Haven expanded its reach by opening a Washington D.C. office and drop-in center in July 2023. Located at 331 H Street, N.E., this center extends similar essential services to the LGBTQ community in the capital, ensuring that vulnerable populations receive the support they need.
The organization’s efforts have consistently aimed to create safer environments for LGBTQ individuals, providing not only immediate relief through housing but also long-term support through various developmental programs. This broadened scope of services underscores Baltimore Safe Haven's commitment to addressing the complex challenges faced by LGBTQ individuals, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds.
Through their tireless work and dedication, organizations like Baltimore Safe Haven play a critical role in enhancing the quality of life for LGBTQ individuals. By offering essential services and creating safe spaces, they help to foster a more inclusive society. The new facility on North Collington Avenue is more than just a building; it is a beacon of hope and a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives.
Looking to the future, Baltimore Safe Haven remains focused on expanding its impact and continuing to support the LGBTQ community through innovative programs and partnerships. The new community hub represents a vital step forward in this journey, promising to make a lasting difference in the lives of countless individuals.
The opening of the new facility is eagerly anticipated, with plans to begin operations soon. As Baltimore Safe Haven moves into this exciting phase, they invite the community to join them in celebrating this achievement and supporting their ongoing mission.
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