A New Space for Hearts and Ears, Inc

Hi I'm Ken Jiretsu, Executive Director of Hearts and Ears, Inc. I am trying to raise money toward a new and larger space so Hearts and Ears can expand its services!

We are a Trans-led, peer-run wellness and recovery center for LGBTQIA+ individuals in Baltimore City and surrounding counties. It is also the only LGBTQIA+ wellness and recovery center in the state of Maryland that has provided services to the community for 24 years and counting. The center is open 32 hours a week and offers a variety of hybrid groups and activities surrounding behavioral health, holistic wellness, and assists with locating resources.

The space we are currently in has had a lot of continuous water damage from the ceiling and walls and has caused damage to equipment and documents. It has also caused us to unexpectedly shut down several times until the issues were fixed, and was a huge inconvenience to the members we provide services to. With the funds we raise, we will be able to find a better space for community members to come to, as well as more services to access.

Now more than ever, there is an urgent call for mental health, substance use recovery resources and safer spaces for sexual and gender minorities. Maryland has been recently declared a sanctuary state as LGBTQ (especially Transgender individuals) are relocating here seeking safe spaces, services, and most of all community.

We appreciate any amount you can donate to our cause, and please accept our heartfelt thanks. Also, feel free to check out our website at www.heartsandears.org for more information about our center.