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Dear Friend,

As you know, healthcare is one of the most controversial topics today.  It is being hotly debated in Congress even as you read this letter.  Everyone has an opinion about it.  Ideally, all people would have access to quality healthcare in a welcoming environment at an affordable price.  The LGBTQ and HIV/AIDS communities have a particular interest in this subject: our needs are unique and demand care that is informed, sensitive and available to the people that need it.  Such specialized care is difficult to find in many areas in the country.  Fortunately, Hartford is an exception and your support can keep it that way.

The Hartford Gay & Lesbian Health Collective does more than fill a void in the local healthcare landscape: we are a necessary presence in the lives of many people in the greater Hartford area and beyond.  As the largest organization in the state devoted to the LGBTQ and HIV/AIDS communities, we have the experience, knowledge and most of all, the understanding needed for this job.  Your gift helps us to have a continued presence in our community.  Our work is marked by compassion, empathy and insight into our clients and their needs.  Many studies have discovered significant disparities in the healthcare of the LGBTQ and HIV/AIDS communities.  Clients have confirmed that the concern of our staff and volunteers have helped to make a stressful situation bearable.  A satisfactory encounter with a provider is the hallmark of our clients’ visits to the Health Collective. 

Our services are wide-ranging and impact many people:

• HIV testing & counseling and STD diagnosis & treatment

• Hepatitis A & B Screening and Immunization

• HIV Prevention and Outreach

• PAP Testing, Breast and Pelvic Exams

• Rainbow Room for LGBTQ youth and other support groups

• Ryan White programs that provide dental care, acupuncture, mental health services, and meals for individuals living with HIV/AIDS.

Grants cover only a portion of these programs: your contribution helps to fill the gap.  We partner with other organizations to further important causes in Connecticut.  We are a resource for questions about health and the LGBTQ community in our region.  The Hartford Gay & Lesbian Health Collective is there for you.

No one ever wants to be in need of medical care.  But when you or someone you care about does need it, isn’t it reassuring to know that a place like the Hartford Gay & Lesbian Health Collective exists here in our community?  Like many provider agencies we are seeing an increased demand for our services in these economically challenging times.  The need for our services is great.  As a member of our communities or an ally, your support is appreciated by us and is needed by our clients.  Thank you for giving generously. 

Be Well.  Be Yourself.

 

Linda Estabrook, MPH Executive Director

E. John McGarvey Board President