The Need for Investments in Trans and Gender Non-conforming Communities

SFCHC Managing Director Nicky “Tita Aida” Calma highlights the need for investments in trans and gender non-conforming communities at Trans Thrive’s press conference and ribbon-cutting cermony.

The launch of the new Trans Thrive facility was born out of a comprehensive community needs assessment conducted by SFCHC’s Senior Strategy Advisor Tatyana Moaton, PhD, over a four-month period in 2022, including listening sessions, surveys and interviews. Findings from this assessment highlighted the unique challenges and disproportionate burden of poverty, lack of stable housing, and employment discrimination, which negatively impact the physical and mental health of TGNC individuals. 

“Addressing these inequities requires a comprehensive and integrated approach that also acknowledges and combats the violence, stigma and discrimination our TGNC community faces on a daily basis,” stated Dr. Moaton. “We heard clearly that TGNC individuals want to interact with clinicians and service providers who understand their struggles and concerns. That’s why Trans Thrive will be led and staffed by members of the TGNC community, serving as a place of refuge and comfort for clientele.” 

Trans Thrive sponsor Gilead Sciences praised SFCHC for its innovative work in promoting the safety, health and wellness of the transgender community.   

“Transgender people need access to mental health and life-saving resources, including gender-affirming care and HIV testing and treatment,” said Jane Stafford, executive director of Public Affairs at Gilead Sciences. “It is more important than ever to ensure TGNC individuals can receive the essential services they need. The new Trans Thrive facility is a critical component in addressing disparities within the Bay Area. We look forward to seeing the impact of this important work throughout the community.”

The Trans Thrive facility opens as an onslought of hateful rhetoric and regressive legislation proliferating across the U.S. aimed at the trans community. This year alone, more than 300 bills have been introduced across 33 states that would limit transgender rights, including bans on gender-affirming care that is proven to saves lives. These attacks on the TGNC community are backward and cruel. 

“We must and will fight any and all backlash and stand firm in the unassailable truth that the TGNC community has the right to live healthy, joyful, and productive lives,” said SFCHC CEO Lance Toma. “This new home for Trans Thrive embodies our belief that TGNC individuals will always have a place of belonging in our community.”  

To find out more about the Trans Thrive facility, please check out our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page.