If you're part of the LGBTQIA+ community in New York, there are many places that can help you.
What does LGBTQIA+ mean?
LGBTQIA+ stands for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexual, and more. It includes people who love differently or feel different about their gender than most people.
Community centers
Community centers are places where LGBTQIA+ people can get help, join programs, and meet others. Here are some in New York:
WESTERN NEW YORK
278 Delaware Ave, Buffalo, NY 14202
(716) 852-7743
CAPITAL REGION
Pride Center of the Capital Region
332 Hudson Ave, Albany, NY 12210
(518) 462-6138
DUTCHESS COUNTY
710 South Dr Ste 200, East Fishkill, NY
(845) 380.6549 (Text)
(845) 440.3430 (Voice)
ROCKLAND COUNTY
28 S Franklin St, Nyack, NY 10960
(845) 353-6300
NEW YORK CITY
Brooklyn Community Pride Center Crown Heights
1561 Bedford Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11225-1306
(347) 889-7719
66 Willow Ave, Staten Island, NY 10305
(718) 808-1360
Healthcare
In New York, there's a law called the LGBT Bill of Rights. It says that when you go to the doctor or hospital:
- People must treat you with respect
- They can't judge you
- They must use the right name and pronouns for you
- You can get the same care as everyone else
Starting a family
If you want to have kids, there are places that can help:
- LGBTQ+ Family Building Grants - A list of grants that are available for the LGBTQ+ community to help pay for fertility treatments and adoption.
- State insurance for fertility - Some states make insurance companies pay for fertility treatments. There is a map that shows which states do this. You can also find questions to ask your boss about your insurance.
- Fertility Healthcare coverage - These maps show which states require insurance to pay for fertility treatments. They also show coverage through Medicaid.
- Help with choosing and enrolling in a healthcare plan - If you need help finding health insurance, you can meet with someone called an Insurance Navigator. They will help you find cheap insurance plans that cover what you need. The team knows about private insurance, ACA, and New York options.
Help for young people
If you're young and need help, you can call these places:
- The Center for Youth (24-hour hotline): 585-271-7670
- GLYS Western New York: 716-855-0221
Mental health help
If you're feeling sad or thinking about hurting yourself, call The Trevor Project: 1-866-488-7386. They help LGBTQIA+ young people and are open all the time.
Places to stay
If you need a place to stay, these groups can help:
- The National Runaway Safeline: 1-800-786-2929
- The Center For Youth Services: 585-271-7670
- Compass House: 716-886-1351
- Equinox, Inc.: 518-465-3524
- Hudson River Housing: 845-471-1632
- Ali Forney Center: 212-222-3427
Remember, you're not alone. There are people who want to help you. Don't be afraid to get support.
Last Reviewed: May 29, 2025