For Immediate Release: September 4, 2024
Contact: Ciora Thomas, ciora.thomas@sisterspgh.org, (412) 961-4321
(Pittsburgh and Philadelphia) — SisTers PGH, a leading organization dedicated to supporting Black trans women and the broader trans community, is excited to announce a new partnership with World Health Care Infrastructure/TPAC. This collaboration marks a significant milestone in expanding their mission with the launch of SisTers PHL, an independent organization fiscally sponsored by SisTers PGH, designed to provide essential resources and support to trans communities in Philadelphia.
World Health Care Infrastructure/TPAC is allocating $15,000 to this partnership, specifically for its startup. Additionally, SisTers PGH has allocated $20,000 to support the startup of SisTers PHL. These combined funds total $35,000, which will be critical in covering the initial costs, will ensure that SisTers PHL is well-positioned to deliver vital services from the outset. SisTers PGH Executive Director Ciora Thomas continues to engage in conversations with local philanthropic groups and organizations and will maintain crowdfunding efforts to meet ongoing needs as we support the startup of SisTers PHL.
The startup services provided by SisTers PHL will include emergency shelter, resource navigation, rent and utility support, and transportation assistance. These services are essential in addressing the immediate needs of the trans community in Philadelphia, particularly Black and brown trans individuals who often face the most significant challenges.
“We are incredibly grateful to World Health Care Infrastructure/TPAC for their support and belief in our mission,” said Thomas. “This combined funding is not only an investment in our organization but in the futures of the trans individuals in Philadelphia who will benefit from the resources and support provided by SisTers PHL.”
Bishop Celena Spain-Frank of Whosoever MCCP will serve as a co-lead for SisTers PHL, working directly on the ground in Philadelphia. Bishop Spain-Frank, the first Black trans woman to be consecrated as a Bishop in the United States, has a rich history of activism in Philadelphia. She has been a powerful advocate for LGBTQIA+ rights and is known for her leadership within the faith community, where she has consistently worked to create inclusive spaces for marginalized individuals. Bishop Spain-Frank will have a presence at TPAC during SisTers PHL’s open hours, ensuring consistent leadership and support on the ground.
“Partnering with SisTers PGH to launch SisTers PHL is a dream come true,” said Bishop Spain-Frank. “This partnership allows us to create a transformative space for Black trans individuals in Philadelphia, providing them with the resources and support they need to thrive. Together, we are building a foundation of hope, resilience, and empowerment.”
Collectively, Thomas, Bishop Spain-Frank, and Deja Alvarez, Deputy Director of World Health Care Infrastructure/TPAC, will be working together to support, build out, and maintain the infrastructure and integrity of SisTers PHL. Bishop Spain-Frank and Thomas will be working closely to ensure the best outcomes for SisTers PHL.
“World Health Care Infrastructure/TPAC is proud to stand with SisTers PGH in launching this vital initiative,” said Alvarez. “Our partnership is a testament to our shared commitment to equity, inclusion, and justice for the trans community in Philadelphia. We are excited to see the profound impact SisTers PHL will have in our city.”
“Since 1989, TPAC/WHCi has been steadfast in its mission to uplift and empower the most marginalized communities throughout the Greater Philadelphia area,” Alvarez added. “For over three decades, we have provided vital resources and unwavering support to individuals whose voices are often silenced and whose needs are frequently overlooked. Our dedication extends beyond basic services; it encompasses a deep commitment to the holistic well-being of those grappling with the harshest societal challenges. We stand by our LGBTQIA+ family, our transgender siblings, our immigrant and undocumented neighbors, recognizing that their struggles are not isolated but deeply intertwined with systems of oppression, discrimination, and inequity.
“Through our work, we strive to dismantle these barriers by offering not only immediate relief but also fostering long-term healing, growth, and empowerment. Whether it be through healthcare, legal advocacy, or social support, our mission remains rooted in justice, equity, and the belief that everyone deserves to thrive regardless of who they are, where they come from, or the challenges they face. We continue to walk alongside these communities, championing their rights, dignity, and full potential, committed to creating a world where they are not only seen but celebrated.”
SisTers PHL will utilize the space provided by World Health Care Infrastructure/TPAC, located at 112 North Broad Street, 12th Floor, Philadelphia, PA, 19102, for the first two years as they gauge the specific needs within the community, especially for Black trans people. Following this initial period, the goal is to secure an independent space in Philadelphia to serve as a dedicated drop-in center for SisTers PHL clients. Even after moving into an independent location, SisTers PHL plans to maintain its partnership with TPAC.
“We believe in the importance of strong partnerships and are actively seeking to collaborate with like-minded Philadelphia organizations,” Thomas added. “These partnerships will help support and broaden the mission of SisTers PHL, ensuring we stand strong in our service provision to the Philadelphia trans community, particularly our Black and brown trans communities.”
Oversight of SisTers PHL will be provided by the Board of Directors of SisTers PGH, with more intimate oversight from Thomas, who will serve as the interim director for SisTers PHL until future funding is available to hire a full-time executive director and other staff to help with operations. Additionally, Thomas will maintain a strong presence in Philadelphia moving forward to ensure continued connection with the trans community and local organizations, furthering the mission and impact of SisTers PHL. For more information about the Board of Directors, please visit sisterspgh.org.
As part of this partnership, Thomas and Alvarez will be present together at the upcoming Philly Trans Wellness Conference, taking place from September 5-7, 2024, at Temple University in Philadelphia. SisTers PGH and SisTers PHL will have a shared exhibition space at the conference, in collaboration with World Health Care Infrastructure/TPAC, to engage with attendees and further promote their mission.
The Philly Trans Wellness Conference is a significant event that brings together trans people, allies, families, and healthcare providers to discuss and re-envision what health and wellness mean for transgender and gender-nonconforming individuals. This year’s conference marks the return of in-person programming, providing a focused and intimate setting for meaningful engagement and learning.
For more information about SisTers PGH or SisTers PHL, please visit sisterspgh.org or email us at info@sisterspgh.org.
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SisTers PGH is a Black- and Trans-led 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that serves Trans and nonbinary people within Southwestern Pennsylvania. Learn more at www.sisterspgh.org.
About SisTers PGH:
SisTers PGH is a Black and trans-led nonprofit organization based in Pittsburgh, PA, founded by Ciora Thomas, that has been serving the community for 14 years. Dedicated to providing safe housing, resources, and support to the transgender and nonbinary communities, SisTers PGH is trusted, respected, and highly resourced by trans people in Pittsburgh and Allegheny County. The organization operates several programs, including Project T, Monica Roberts Place, and the Trans Resource Center, with a mission to uplift and empower the most marginalized members of the LGBTQIA+ community.