Shawnese Givens, interim executive director at the Attic Youth Center, says the center has always been focused on creating a safe and supportive community for at-risk youth. But during the pandemic, LGBTQ youth need help now more than ever.
So the center continues to bridge what can be a very broad gap.
“LGBTQ youth often do not have the support of their families, and so providing these services gives them the resources to bridge the gap that’s often not provided for by their families,” Givens explained.
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Those services range from online life skills programs and counseling to a much needed hot meal.
“Many of our young people have told us that the hot meal they receive at the Attic may be the only hot meal they get during the day, especially during the summer when schools aren’t open,” Givens added.
And the pandemic has only steepened what seemed to be an insurmountable hurdle for LGBTQ youth. So the Attic is answering that call three days a week: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
“Three days a week for three hours at a time we are physically open to provide personal hygiene products, food pantry items and a hot meal,” Givens said.
During in-person hours, social distancing and masks are required.
For more information, contact the center at 215-545-4331.