SUFFOLK, Va. - Public input is being sought from the LGBTQ community on what services they'd like to see offered at an upcoming LGBT center in Suffolk.
The new center will offer services to the underserved Western Tidewater region, including the cities of Suffolk, Franklin, and the counties of Isle of Wight, Southampton County and surrounding areas.
A survey is currently underway to provide input on the type of services the new community center should prioritize, such as free HIV/STD testing, access to PrEP (HIV prevention pill,) PEP (Post-Exposure Treatment,) primary care services, on-site pharmacy, and community/support groups.
Those who identify as LGBT or straight are encouraged to take the needs assessment survey here.
“The closest center for those in Western Tidewater could be up to an hour drive or longer in places like Norfolk or the Peninsula. We really want to bring those same services closer to home and offer support for our LGBT brothers and sisters right here in the Western Tidewater area,” said Colby Miller, a partner in developing the community center.
The centers help those that are discovering their sexuality or gender identity, people who suffer from AIDS/HIV and other STD’s.
The centers host local pride events and cultural gatherings, town halls for LGBT residents, and some are youth-centric “drop-in” locations for younger LGBT people under 30.
To follow the progress of the Suffolk LGBT Center of Hampton Roads, click here.
