Black Alphabet Pro Bono Program
Khesed has partnered with Black Alphabet to make mental health therapy accessible for LGBTQIA+ BIPOC folx in Chicago.
Participants must meet the following qualifications:
18+
Resides in Cook County
Identifies as BIPOC
Identifies as LGBTQ+
Each participant will receive 6 free sessions. Upon completion of the program, participants have the option to continue services through our other ongoing affordable or free programs. Complete our intake form to get started with one of our therapists, and contact us with any questions.
How are LGBTQ+ BIPOC folks in Cook County uniquely impacted by mental health struggles?
According to a report the National Alliance on Mental Illness, Queer adults are more than twice as likely as heterosexual adults to experience a mental health condition, and 40% of transgender adults have attempted suicide in their lifetime, compared to less than 5% of the general U.S. population.
In tandem, the BIPOC community is disproportionately impacted by systemic oppression and racial injustices, resulting in health disparities. While mental health conditions do not discriminate based on race, color, gender, or identity, one’s background and identity can make access to mental health treatment much more difficult.
When we look at the city of Chicago, certain areas have a higher concentration of uninsured residents, including parts of Cook County, which has the lowest average individual income out of all Chicago counties.
We can help.
We are providing FREE mental health therapy sessions for individuals living in Cook County who are affected by intersectional mental health and economic inequities.
About Black Alphabet: Black Alphabet stands as the premier and longest-standing arts organization dedicated to the Black LGBTQ+ community globally. With an unwavering commitment to amplifying voices through the arts and media, Black Alphabet has been a steadfast advocate for the past decade. Through programs such as the annual film festival, poetry slam, and art therapy sessions, Black Alphabet has consistently fostered social equity awareness and education within the Black LGBTQ+ community. These initiatives not only provide essential resources but have also been instrumental in cultivating a vibrant and supportive community, particularly within the LGBTQ+ landscape in Chicago.