Out in the Open—Vermont’s nonprofit that connects the state’s rural LGBTQ community—is gathering donations to support LGBTQ+ Vermonters affected by last month’s historic flooding, which left many regions in a state of emergency.
Reports Vermont Public:
Natural disasters can create unseen challenges for rural queer Vermonters who have left their homes, said Jake McBride, the community organizer for Out in the Open.
“Many folks here are alienated from their families of origin,” McBride said. “That often happens in the LGBTQ community as people get disowned or are pushed out of their families or communities of origin. And so while many locals are evacuating flooded homes, to nearby family members, that might be much more challenging for folks who don’t have local family.”
Out in the Open is currently raising funds to support LGBTQ+ Vermonters affected by the flooding and plans to pivot its annual Vermont Summit in September to do the same.
To make a donation, or to learn more about Out in the Open, visit weareoutintheopen.org. All donations are going directly to rural LGBTQ+ Vermonters affected by the flood with priority going to people of color, trans people and disabled people, the organization notes on their donations page.
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