Fresno EOC is ready to help address the struggles of people who have come to the Central Valley from Mexico. They likely face a number of obstacles in getting their basic needs met, including a language barrier, citizenship, and getting a roof over their heads. The last thing they should have to worry about is being accepted for who they are.
Fresno EOC’s Chief Executive Officer, Emilia Reyes, wants LGBTQ+ individuals to know there is a place for them should they need resources or support. “They may find themselves not accepted by family, friends, or the community. It can be lonely. And we want them to know there’s help. We’re here for them.”
Fresno EOC is partnering with the Mexican Consulate in Fresno to help protect the rights of people from Mexico who are living here and identify with the LGBTQ+ community. Together, they signed a memorandum of understanding on October 19, 2022.
The new partnership means the Consulate can refer people who align with the LGBTQ+ community to Fresno EOC’s LGBTQ+ Resource Center in downtown Fresno for information about services and available resources.
Misty Gattie-Blanco is the Director of Fresno EOC Sanctuary and Support Services which oversees the LGBTQ+ Resource Center. She says the Center will be able to help more people because of the MOU. “This new partnership means we will have additional resources to help with items including immigration, education (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals – DACA), and legal referrals.”
The Center currently provides medical resources, low-cost or no-cost mental health services, substance use disorder assistance, case management, housing assistance, peer support groups, name and gender change assistance, adult and youth groups, a clothing closet, and more. See our request for service form for a complete list of services.Click here for more coverage of the partnership with the Mexican Consulate of Fresno at ABC30 and The Fresno Bee.
About Fresno EOC LGBTQ+ Resource CenterThe LGBTQ+ Resource Center became a program of Fresno EOC in 2019. The Center provides support services to enhance the health and well-being of individuals of all ages in the LGBTQ+ community. We serve all individuals in the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, non-binary, queer, and questioning community members in the Fresno County area.Zoom meetings are available for those who need transportation. Plus, there is a drop-in Center where people can hang out during office hours.The Center hosts free events for the community on a monthly basis, including ArtHop on the first Thursday of the month, as well as game night.
For media inquiries, please contact pr@fresnoeoc.org
