The LGBTQIA+ Aging Project - Programs & Support Groups - Fenway Health: Health Care Is A Right, Not A Privilege.

LGBTQIA+ Bereavement Support Groups

The LGBTQIA+ Bereavement Support Group is the first statewide initiative to address loss in the LGBTQIA+ community. The program is funded by the Department of Public Health and it is facilitated by The LGBTQIA+ Aging Project.

The LGBTQIA+ Bereavement Group is a free 8-week group facilitated by a licensed clinical social worker experienced in bereavement issues in the LGBTQIA+ Community. The group is open to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, questioning, intersex, and asexual individuals of any age who have experienced the loss of a loved one (family member, friend, partner/spouse).

All groups require pre-registration. For more information on the LGBTQIA+ Bereavement Program contact Lisa Krinsky at 857.313.6590 or lkrinsky@fenwayhealth.org.

Weekly Zoom Drop-in Group for LGBTQIA+ Older Adults

Since the very beginning of the pandemic, the Aging Project has offered a weekly Zoom drop-in group for LGBTQIA+ older adults. These are informal discussion groups that keep people feeling connected during these challenging times. One group meets on Mondays from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM, and for those who like a smaller group, there is a second drop-in on Thursdays from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM.

New members are always welcome and can be matched with a current member to talk before their first group if that feels more supportive.

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

Community Meals & Programs for LGBTQIA+ Older Adults and their friends

Massachusetts has a network of 24 LGBTQIA+ friendly community meal programs sponsored by local elder service providers across the state.

With the support of the Aging Project’s training and technical assistance many elder service providers across the state of Massachusetts offer community meal programs that are designed for LGBTQIA+ older adults and their friends. These programs not only offer hot nutritious meals but they provide opportunities for social connections and engagement with other LGBTQIA+ older adults.

Prior to the pandemic, the 24 LGBTQ Community Meal Programs across the state included some daily, weekly or monthly lunch programs, supper clubs and weekend brunches. Currently during the pandemic many of those programs are offering virtual gatherings while some are meeting in person. To find a complete listing of the programs click the image below to download the full meal program calendar. The backside of the calendar includes each site’s contact information regarding registration and to inquire if that site is open and whether it is in person or virtual.