Through donations, grants and its annual gala, the Bay State’s LGBT Asylum Task Force has raised enough funds to purchase a building in Worcester to shelter LGBT people fleeing violence in other countries due to their sexual orientation or gender ID. Asylum seekers will be able to live in the housing until their claims have been determined.
“The acquisition of the property will not only reduce program costs, it will enhance the community and the quality of life for asylum seekers,” notes a press release from the organization, which goes on to explain:
Individuals who apply for asylum in the United States are not permitted to work until they are granted a work permit and a social security number, a process which can take more than a year. During that time, they are ineligible for most forms of support. The LGBT Asylum Task Force provides necessary housing and financial help to asylum seekers while they await the determination of their case.
Ministry Director, Al Green, an asylum claimant, shared, “The program is a lifeline and a sign of hope for people around the world. This program saves lives, provides day-to-day necessities, and gives hope to so many who have lost all hope.” Rev. Judith Hanlon, Pastor of Hadwen Park Church and co-founder of the LGBT Asylum Task Force, says, “This is a miracle! Another miracle of the right people being in the right place at the right time to help make this happen.”
Funds used to purchase the property were raised through private donations, grants and the LGBT Asylum Task Force’s annual gala.
The fourth annual gala, “Envision the Future,” will be held virtually on September 26 and includes a silent auction, stories from asylum seekers and a world premier documentary. More information about the Gala, sponsorships and donations is available online at lgbtasylum.org.
The LGBT Asylum Task Force: The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender (LGBT) Asylum Task Force is a ministry of Hadwen Park Church and a community-based organization dedicated to supporting and empowering LGBTQI individuals who are seeking asylum in the United States.
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