#USA #New York #Kiehl's #Ali Forney Center #Pride Campaign

Kiehl's and Ali Forney Center: A Partnership for Pride and Inclusion

Kiehl's Since 1851 continues its commitment to supporting the LGBTQIA2+ community through its latest initiative, the "Love Letters" campaign. This initiative seeks to uplift and empower individuals within this community, particularly those who face the challenges of homelessness. In collaboration with the Ali Forney Center, the campaign emphasizes the importance of both physical and emotional safety for LGBTQIA2+ youth.

For those unfamiliar, the Ali Forney Center (AFC) plays a crucial role in providing shelter and valuable resources to LGBTQIA2+ young people who are often ostracized by their families due to their identity. With a staggering 40% of New York City's homeless youth identifying as LGBTQIA2+, the need for compassionate support is urgent. Kiehl's partnership with the AFC is not just a campaign; it reflects a deeper commitment to helping over 2,200 LGBTQIA2+ youth each year.

Kiehl's has pledged to contribute $150,000 to the Ali Forney Center in 2025, aimed at providing safe temporary housing and essential services. This substantial support is intended to ensure these young individuals not only have a roof over their heads but also the tools necessary for independent living and a transformable future.

The Love Letters Campaign

The "Love Letters" campaign goes beyond providing physical shelter. Kiehl's recognizes the importance of emotional support, and this initiative invites members of the community to share their stories. With the help of notable LGBTQIA2+ figures like Alyssa Edwards from RuPaul's Drag Race and various local non-profits, Kiehl's encourages participants to pen letters of gratitude to those who have created safe spaces for them. This heartfelt engagement is designed to foster connections and celebrate authenticity within the LGBTQIA2+ community.

John Reed, General Manager of Kiehl's Since 1851, highlighted the brand's longstanding dedication to inclusivity and support, emphasizing that their partnership with the Ali Forney Center is a testament to their mission. Kiehl's has a rich history of community engagement dating back to the late 1980s, contributing over $1.4 million to LGBTQIA2+ causes since 2015 alone.

Acknowledging the Challenges

The necessity of the services provided by the Ali Forney Center underscores the critical conditions faced by many LGBTQIA2+ youth. Notably, 80% of the homeless youth served by AFC were expelled from their homes due to their sexual orientation or gender identity. Alarmingly, over half of AFC's clients come from families that do not accept them because of religious beliefs. In this light, the partnership with Kiehl's forms an essential support network for these vulnerable youths. Furthermore, 80% of the youth in AFC's programs transition to independent living—a significant contrast to the national average of just 25%.

Alex Roque, President and Executive Director of the Ali Forney Center, expressed immense gratitude for Kiehl's support, stating their collaborative efforts help facilitate life-saving resources. The partnership epitomizes a commitment to protecting and empowering youth who are at risk of homelessness due to societal prejudice and lack of family support.

Conclusion

As Kiehl's and the Ali Forney Center join forces to promote pride, individuality, and safety, the Love Letters campaign serves as a crucial reminder of the fundamental need for community and support. Whether through emotional outreach or tangible assistance, their collective efforts forge pathways for LGBTQIA2+ youth to thrive. This Pride season, Kiehl's invites everyone to participate in the Love Letters initiative, creating a collective narrative of strength and acceptance.

For more information about Kiehl's Open Doors platform and the Pride Love Letters campaign, visit Kiehl's official website and follow their ongoing journey of advocacy and support.