*If Cyndi Lauper had just provided us with an amazing back catalog of pop hits, it would’ve been enough for us.
If Cyndi Lauper had only given the world her unique fashion sense and hairstyles, it would’ve been enough for us.
If Cyndi Lauper simply recorded new music and toured internationally, it would’ve been enough for us..
If she just just continued to speak out on behalf of the LGBT community and donate her time, money and resources to the True Colors campaign, it would have been enough for us.
How about we take this to the next level?
Our newsletter is like a refreshing cocktail (or mocktail) of LGBTQ+ entertainment and pop culture, served up with a side of eye-candy.
But it’s never enough for ultimate ally Lauper, who is cutting the ribbon on a new shelter for homeless LGBTs ages 18-24 at West 154th Street in Harlem. The True Colors Residence, a collaboration between West End Intergenerational Residence, Lauper and her manager Lisa Barbaris,—and reportedly the first permanent housing facility of its kind in New York State—opens its doors on September 1.
New York City is home to thousands of homeless queer youths, many of whom have been kicked out of their homes or who are fleeing abuse. But the financial crisis has seen funding for LGBT youth services and housing at places like the Ali Forney Center drastically slashed.
Lauper’s always been a hard worker and she expects residents at the True Colors Residence to pull their share as well, as she explains on the website:
We’ll be building from the ground up so our residents will have a brand new, modern building with studio apartments for each resident and both indoor and outdoor community space to socialize or attend education and recreation programs.
Each resident will be responsible for paying affordable rent based on their income and will receive ongoing assistance in obtaining employment best suited to their individual interests and skills. Although TCR will not require participation in its programs, a variety of social and educational support services will be available to all who request them.
Our primary goal is to provide a physically and emotionally safe and supportive environment that will empower our young residents to be the self-loving, happy, and successful individuals they were meant to be.
OMG, can you imagine Cyndi frickin’ Lauper stopping by your apartment for movie night? We would just die.
*With apologies to the Hebrew song, “Dayenu”
Oscar Raymundo
Exactly what homeless youth needs, not encouraging after-school programs but roofs!
TMikel
Ms. Lauper has long been a beacon of light and hope in the world when it comes to LGBT causes and rights. My thanks to her for this latest effort – many will be helped by having a safe place to stay.
Michael
Cyndi is a true ally the ultimate ally she genuinely loves and cares deeply for the LGBT community always has. Love ya Cyndi.
christopher di spirito
Major props to Cyndi Lauper for her true generosity and unending support.
Cam
That is just wonderful Places like Sylvia’s house were good, but couldn’t provide the job assistance that a place like this does. This is really above and beyond and good for her.
I found the website and if anybody wants to donate…
https://npo.networkforgood.org/Donate/Donate.aspx?npoSubscriptionId=4730
GayGOP
Thanks to Ms. Lauper for doing just what is needed. We can get these kids protected, and hopefully have the damage of the abuse and the hatred thrown at them will be fixed due to Ms. Lauper’s work.
WillBFair
Ms. Lauper is an angel. She’s also a brainiac. She’s not only providing a roof and emotional support, she’s trying to make the project self sustaining in this creepizoid market driven culture. She’s asking the residents to work and contribute, thus building their own skills and self esteem and the project’s financial base. Brava.
the crustybastard
Nice.
WillBFair
I bless her name.
Sebizzar
I’m very proud of her 🙂 I shall listen to her songs even more now lol
slanty
Great news!
LandStander
What an amazing person!
BLUE MAGIC
THATS GREAT CINDY,,ITS OBVIOUS IT WAS ONE OF YOUR ISSUES,,,ITS ENDURING WHEN ,,SOMEONE ,,NOT JUST CELEBRITIES MAKE A DIFFERENCE,,IN ANYONES LIFE,,,WHY,,,BECAUSE IT COULD HAPPIN TO ALMOST ANYONE,,,AND IT DOES,,,SO REACH OUT,,BE KIND,,ITS SUCH A ATTRIBUTE,,TO REALLY CARE,,IT SAYS SO MUCH,,,AND YOU CAN DO THAT IN SO MANY WAYS,,,LIKE JUST BEING THERE FOR SOMEONE,,,SO WORLD,,,BE KIND,,,IT SOARS….
Eminent Victorian
Thank you for posting this story. It would sure be nice if this kind of thing, and Ms. Lauper’s continued generosity, were reported more widely.
Samwise
LOL at the Dayenu reference. Someone can’t wait for Passover.
slanty
@BLUE MAGIC: That’s really hard to read.