Post by Virginia Peninsula Foodbank

As Pride Month comes to a close, we want to highlight the important work of one of our partner agencies, the LGBT Life Center in Hampton. Founded in 1989 in Norfolk, the organization opened a new location in Hampton that’s been serving the community since 2024. In addition to their Pride Pantry, the LGBT Life Center offers wrap-around services prioritizing community connection and mental and physical health supports. When we visited on a Tuesday morning, they were hosting a dental clinic that provided cleanings and other screenings. “We center queer identities, but we serve all communities,” said Andrew Garber, Program Manager for Support Services. “When you help the few, you help the many.” The LGBT Life Center serves 300 people a month and is designed to be a space where all are welcome to take what they need. They provide an assortment of shelf-stable items, frozen meats, eggs, and are looking to expand their selection of fresh produce. They also offer period products and other hygiene and health items that are vital to a person’s self-sufficiency. As queer youth are disproportionately affected by homelessness, many of the items on the shelves are easy to open and can be eaten with little preparation. “We want to center dignity and uphold and support people’s agency. Shopping and taking what you need is part of that,” said Andrew. The LGBT Life Center is open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Tuesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. – 8 p.m. #PrideMonth #LGBTLifeCenter #CommunitySupport #PartnerAgency