"IN YOUR CORNER" FUND: A Protection & Support Fund for LGBTQIA+ Youth

Purpose

To provide emergency financial support and affirmation to LGBTQIA+ youth in Richland County and beyond who are facing crisis, bullying, family rejection, housing insecurity, grief, or emotional trauma. This fund is rooted in fierce love and the belief that no young person should have to fight alone.

Fund Uses

• Emergency needs: Clothing, transportation, phone cards, food, hygiene items.

• Mental health support: Covering therapy co-pays, session fees, or grief resources.

• School-related aid: Books, supplies, gender-affirming clothing, or club fees.

• Crisis response: Temporary housing assistance, safe lodging, or gift cards when a youth is displaced.

Who It Supports

• Youth currently connected to LOAM programs.

• LGBTQIA+ youth in Richland County who are referred by schools, community members, or crisis partners.

• Youth facing bullying, family rejection, grief, or emotional overwhelm.

How The Fund Works

Every dollar you give goes directly to supporting LGBTQIA+ youth in need. Here’s how we make sure your donation makes a real, meaningful impact—safely and thoughtfully.

Simple Requests, Compassionate Review

Youth submit a short, confidential application when they’re facing a tough situation—whether it's bullying, family rejection, grief, or financial crisis. Each request is reviewed by a small, trusted LOAM committee trained to respond with care, dignity, and urgency.

Case-By-Case Basis

There’s no one-size-fits-all here. The amount and type of support is determined based on the individual’s specific needs. Whether it’s groceries, therapy support, gender-affirming clothing, or emergency transportation—we respond to what they say would help most.

No Cash Given

To protect both youth and the integrity of the fund, no cash is given directly to applicants. Instead, we provide:

• Gift cards to trusted stores (like Walmart, Kroger, or local shops)

• Transportation support (bus fare, ride shares, or LOAM staff assistance)

• Personal shopping help—someone from our team can accompany a youth to get what they need, safely and respectfully.

Every Dollar = Protection, Dignity, and Hope

Your gift is a lifeline. It tells a young person:
“You’re not alone. Someone is in your corner.”