The Pride Center of Vermont announced it must pause operations due to “critical funding shortfalls,” according to an Oct. 9 press release.

Reports the Burlington Free Press:

The center, which has operated for 26 years, offers HIV prevention and testing, LGBTQ+ resources, peer-led support groups, crisis response and community-building events to thousands of Vermonters annually. The state Commission on Women call it “New England’s most comprehensive community Center” for LGBTQ+ people.

The organization’s pause was announced in an Oct. 9 press release by the board of directors, just one day before its effective date.

“Like many 2STLGBQIA+ organizations across the country, we have been hit hard by a wave of funding losses and shifting priorities at the state and federal level,” the board said. “These changes have made it increasingly difficult for community-based nonprofits like ours to keep doing the work we love, even as more people than ever are turning to us for support.”

The press release goes on to say:

It would be a tragedy for the Pride Center of Vermont to close indefinitely, and we are now asking Vermonters to help our people during this time by supporting, in any way you can, the Pride Center Emergency Fund. For over 25 years, PCVT has been a vital source of connection, care, and advocacy for the 2STLGBQIA+ community. Every year, thousands of Vermonters turn to PCVT for support: whether they’re seeking HIV prevention and testing; trans and queer health and wellness resources; peer-led support groups; crisis response; or community-building events. Without new and sustained funding, we will not be able to continue the essential services that our community relies on. These programs are not optional; they are lifesaving. In order to continue operating, the Pride Center needs to raise approximately $350,000 to return to full services and support our staff.  If you’ve benefited from our work, believe in our mission, or simply want to stand up for equity and community, please consider giving today.

Join us in keeping this lifeline strong. Donate now at pridecentervt.org/#donate

We know this news comes amid a hostile national landscape. Across the country, 2STLGBQIA+ organizations are facing deep funding cuts, rising hostility, and a growing demand for care. In times like these, showing up for each other is an act of resistance. That’s what we’ve always stood for, and why we’ve always been more than a building or an organization. It’s all of us: our community, our shared history,  our shared struggle, and our collective resilience. That’s what we will carry forward together.

Read the complete Pride Center of VT press release here.

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