LGBTQ Connect Outcomes

LGBTQ Connect Sponsored by Blue Shield of California

In the weeks leading up to each event, the PHC team goes into overdrive. Each day at the office becomes a blur of planning meetings, coordinating phone calls, and last minute additions. We work tirelessly to ensure that every detail is in place by the time the volunteers arrive on the morning of the event. When the event space fills with volunteers and participants begin streaming in the doors, all of the accumulated stress and anticipation melts away, because we can finally see the fruits of our labor. Watching the hundreds of volunteers, we feel the strength of our community effort which continues to humble us and make our hard work worthwhile.

Last month’s event, LGBTQ Connect sponsored by Blue Shield of California, was a particularly joyous event because everyone, volunteers and service providers alike, came with the spirit of service. This helped us ensure that those who needed help got what they came for. This was Blue Shield’s first time sponsoring the LGBTQ Connect event, although they have partnered with PHC since 2005. Like PHC, Blue Shield is dedicated to helping the vulnerable and is committed to serving those who are in need. Our collaboration enabled us to serve individuals who have often felt rejected and isolated, in a safe space within a community that believes that everyone has value.Blue Shield is committed to helping build up the community of San Francisco through service with PHC. This is evidenced by not only the quantity but also the quality of Blue Shield volunteers at our events. At the end of LGBTQ Connect, after serving hundreds of participants, Blue Shield volunteers were still going strong– they worked tirelessly to clean and pack up and stayed until the job was done.

Together, we can do so much more than what the PHC staff can do alone. Thank to you all who made this day successful. Thank you Blue Shield of California, for supporting and being a part of the PHC community.

PHC 56 Outcomes ~ October 17, 2014
319	Individuals connected to services with the help of 163 volunteers
93	Benefits & Follow Up Appointments (CAAP, CalFresh, GA, Healthy San Francisco)
60	Obtained new CALIFORNIA STATE IDs that will help them access additional services
45	Received DENTAL procedures
41	Inquired about EMPLOYMENT interviews and services
49	Received EYE EXAMS
3,000	Pounds of GROCERIES were given to participants (SF-Marin Food Bank)
66	Got their FLU SHOTS
65	Got their HAIR CUT
8	Received HEARING TESTS
17	HIV/STI tests performed
32	Were counseled about LEGAL issues affecting their lives
140	LUNCHES were served
32	MASSAGES were performed on clients
31	Accessed MEDICAL services and connected with local primary care physicians who offered follow up appointments
20	EXCHANGED NEEDLES
17	Accessed MENTAL HEALTH services
31/105	Prescription and reading GLASSES
43	Received SAFER SEX information & supplies
50	People received information on SHELTER & HOUSING
5	Accessed VETERANS SERVICES
5	WHEELCHAIRS & WALKERS were repaired