People all across the world have been affected by COVID-19. Some have died, some are still dealing with the long-term side effects, and others are terrified of leaving their homes because they fear they will end up getting infected. This virus has no preference and everyone is at risk of contracting it and passing it along to others.

Yet, not everyone lives the same life and not everyone has access to quality healthcare and insurance. Marginalized people like the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) community may face financial hardships or lack adequate healthcare if they were to get sick with the VID (COVID-19). According to the Human Rights Campaign website, “…in addition to the greater risk of health complications as a result of COVID-19, LGBTQ Americans are more likely than the general population to live in poverty and lack access to adequate medical care, paid medical leave, and basic necessities during the pandemic.”

When combined, all of these factors make it necessary for the LGBTQ+ community to avoid getting sick and also knowing about resources and survival tactics. The COVID-19 pandemic is not the first time this community has had to come together to fight a deadly disease. Taking notes from the HIV/AIDS virus, it is important that the LGBTQ+ community stays together and offers help to those that need it.
According to FenwayHealth.org, “LGBTQ people are more likely to have chronic conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, and HIV/AIDS.” Therefore, there needs to be an understanding within the community that although it is difficult to go a long time without seeing someone, sometimes it is needed in order to save their life. That would mean cancelled plans, no public events or seeing friends. While that may seem lonely, it is something that the LGBTQ+ community will have to do in order to survive this pandemic.

Aside from information like washing your hands thoroughly, avoiding contact with others, staying six feet apart, and social distancing; more can be done for such an at-risk group of people. Access to free resources, free COVID-19 testing, and affordable face masks are just a few examples of necessities during this pandemic for LGBTQ+ people. Obvious reasons for going out in public like getting groceries or going to work are unavoidable and have to be done in order to stay afloat. However, because this community is likely to have a chronic condition, perhaps any free time can be used to focus on healthy outings like riding a bike, going for a walk or eating clean. The LGBTQ+ community cannot avoid the COVID-19 pandemic, but there are precautions that can be taken in order to reduce the chances of contracting the virus. Let’s stay safe people and remember that we are only a phone call away. We offer food, PPE, and other necessary resources to make sure that we all are staying as safe as possible!