Vision
Our vision is a thriving, unified LGBTI+ community that supports and protects its members’ human rights, dignity and psycho-social well-being through connected social networks, participative community involvement and consolidated support structures, especially during periods of crisis and trauma, so that every LGBTI+ individual and their significant others, feel validated, supported and connected in their journey through life.
Mission
We are a short-term residential facility that strives to provide relevant and supportive services within a safe environment to LGBTI+ individuals who
- have experienced or continue to experience a crisis and/or trauma, especially in the context of homo/trans prejudice, which includes, stigma, discrimination, gender-based violence, xenophobia and sudden homelessness
- need shelter and psycho-social care during the crisis and/or trauma
- provide support to the broader LGBTI+ community, especially in the context of homo-prejudice, stigma and human rights abuse
- network with civil society and state organisations ensuring LGBTI+ concerns are raised in relevant contexts and that non-discriminatory policies are adhered to
- liaise and network for a broader base of community engagement in the context of human and mental health rights for the LGBTI+ communities in South Africa
The core of Pride Shelter’s mission is support to the broader and diverse LGBTI+ community as a whole, specifically with a value base of acceptance, non-discrimination and the equal rights of all persons regardless of race, gender, gender-non conformity, bodily diversity, sexual orientation, class, faith, and age.
Currently, we strive to provide the following services:
- An affirming, non-judgmental short-term residential environment for 21 persons
- Individual and group lay counselling offered by the Community Mental Health Coordinator and/or counselling student interns under the supervision of a registered Mental Health Consultant
- Regular referrals to relevant organisations and medical institutions
- Resident House Manager and Caretaker
- Two meals per day
- Two shared computers with internet access
- Educational workshops that cover psycho-social topics, workplace readiness, personal finance and well-being
- Volunteer-led talks/workshops/activities with an empowerment focus (when available)