Mission
To dismantle the cycles of systemic oppression and marginalization impacting Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) transgender and nonbinary communities by providing holistic, trans-led, and gender-affirming care. Through innovative housing initiatives, community-centered programming, and advocacy, Sisters PGH works to create sustainable solutions that empower individuals to thrive, disrupt the nonprofit industrial complex, and build futures rooted in equity, care, and radical inclusion.
Vision
We envision a future where BIPOC transgender and nonbinary people lead sustainable, self-determined lives free from systemic barriers. By transforming the intersections of housing, healthcare, and advocacy, we aim to establish a world where the trans community no longer needs nonprofit support systems that feed on their marginalization. Instead, we foster an environment where harm reduction, mutual aid, and restorative justice guide our actions, and where Black and Brown trans women and femmes have access to safe, affordable housing, equitable employment, and the resources to age with dignity.
At Sisters PGH, we believe in building radical futures, creating spaces for healing and empowerment, and working collaboratively to achieve justice for the most marginalized members of our society.
“SisTers PGH has provided safe spaces for black and brown trans and nonbinary throughout the years and has continued to provide the necessary tools and resources for our siblings in the community who need trans affirming, safe emergency housing in Pittsburgh/Allegheny County. When admitted into the program I felt a sense of welcome, respect, and love for who I am as a person and encouragement to prosper in my own success.”
VALUES
Black Trans Liberation: Centering Black trans women and femmes as leaders of systemic change.
Community Empowerment: Encouraging self-sufficiency and dismantling cycles of dependency.
Trauma-Informed Care: Serving with compassion and accountability, acknowledging the unique experiences of the trans community.
Restorative Justice: Prioritizing healing and accountability without perpetuating systems of harm.
Housing Equity: Creating sustainable, culturally affirming housing solutions for Black and Brown trans communities.
Radical Rest: Recognizing rest as a vital act of resistance and a necessity for healing.
Intersectionality: Uplifting the voices of Black, Indigenous, and Brown trans individuals while addressing overlapping systems of oppression.
Gender-Affirming Care: Advocating for access to comprehensive, affirming healthcare and services.
Economic Justice: Ensuring trans individuals have pathways to economic stability and empowerment.
Abolition: Working to dismantle oppressive systems while building structures that center equity and care.
IMPACT
How We’ve Impacted the Community:
Over the past decade, Sisters PGH has been a cornerstone for Black and Brown trans communities in Pittsburgh and beyond. Our initiatives have directly addressed the most pressing needs of the community, including:
Housing: Through programs like Project T, we’ve provided sustainable transitional housing for Black trans women, ensuring safety and stability for those most vulnerable to homelessness.
Financial Assistance: Distributing over $1 million in rent and utility support, helping countless individuals avoid eviction and keep their homes.
Gender-Affirming Care: We’ve facilitated hormone clinics, mental health clinics, and referrals for primary care providers, ensuring that trans individuals have access to affirming healthcare that respects their identities.
Community Resources: From drop-in spaces like Monica Roberts Place to innovative programs like the Nest Egg, which empowers residents to transition to homeownership, we’ve built systems that prioritize long-term stability and independence.
How We Envision Continuing to Impact the Community:
Our work is far from over. As we look to the future, we are expanding our reach and deepening our impact by:
Advancing Gender-Affirming Care:
Expanding access to hormone therapy clinics, mental health clinics, and referral programs for specialized care.
Ensuring culturally competent and trauma-informed medical providers for trans communities.
Building Long-Term Housing Solutions:
Increasing transitional housing options while developing permanent housing for Black and Brown trans individuals.
Offering wraparound services like financial literacy workshops and employment support to ensure long-term success.
Breaking Systemic Barriers:
Advocating for policy changes that protect and uplift trans communities in housing, healthcare, and employment.
Partnering with local and national organizations to build stronger coalitions for equity.
Creating Holistic Care Networks:
Integrating services like mental health support, substance use recovery referrals, and access to affirming primary care.
Providing healing spaces that center radical rest, trauma-informed care, and peer-led support systems.
Empowering the Next Generation:
Training and mentoring young Black and Brown trans leaders to take on roles in advocacy, nonprofit leadership, and community organizing.
Ensuring sustainability by passing the torch while continuing to innovate and serve.
At Sisters PGH, we measure our success by the strength, stability, and empowerment of those we serve. With your support, we can continue creating transformative change, one life at a time.