Back Up Agenda Item 30__Funding for Austin Public Health focused on LGBTQ+ Healthcare Issues from the LGBTQ QoL Advisory Commission — original pdf

Backup

COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION LGBTQ Quality of Life Advisory Commission Recommendation Number: 20250317-008: Funding for Austin Public Health focused on LGBTQ+ Healthcare Issues Recommendation: Expansion of M-Pox and Vaccination Programs WHEREAS, the City of Austin has recognized the importance of integrated Hepatitis and Flu vaccination programs within LGBTQIA+ outreach initiatives, demonstrating a proactive approach to public health; and WHEREAS, Austin’s health departments and community health centers, including KIND Clinic and Vivant Health, have demonstrated a strong commitment to serving the health needs of the LGBTQIA+ community; and WHEREAS, the ongoing threat posed by M-Pox and the necessity for widespread vaccinations highlight the need for enhanced public health initiatives; and WHEREAS, there is a demonstrated need for increased funding to ensure that these essential vaccination services are accessible and available to all residents, particularly those in vulnerable communities; and WHEREAS, an increase in funding would directly support the expansion of these vital health services, thereby safeguarding the well-being of the community; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the LGBTQI Quality of Life Commission recommends that the Austin City Council approve an increase of $50,000 in funding to Austin health departments to specifically enhance M-Pox and other vaccination programs targeting at-risk populations. Recommendation: Subsidization of PrEP Access Programs Page 1 of 3 WHEREAS, the discontinuation of federal funding for PrEP programs has created a gap in preventative healthcare services critical to reducing the spread of HIV among at-risk populations; and WHEREAS, PrEP (Pre-exposure Prophylaxis) is a proven method for preventing the transmission of HIV, and access to this medication is essential for the health and well-being of communities vulnerable to the epidemic; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin has a responsibility to support public health initiatives that provide comprehensive healthcare solutions to its residents, especially those most at risk; and WHEREAS, providing grants to subsidize PrEP access will ensure that preventative services remain accessible to all, regardless of economic barriers; and WHEREAS, a targeted allocation of funds would directly support the health departments and community health centers across Austin in continuing to offer these vital services; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the LGBTQ Quality of Life Commission recommends that the Austin City Council approve the provision of $100,000 in grants to subsidize PrEP access at facilities throughout Austin, ensuring continued protection and healthcare support to populations at high risk of HIV infection. Recommendation: Expansion of Targeted Mental Health Services for the LGBTQIA+ Community WHEREAS, based on feedback from townhalls, the Quality of Life Study, and our working groups, the LGBTQIA+ community has prioritized targeted mental health services as their number one priority for the city to assist the community with; and WHEREAS, members of the LGBTQIA+ community are disproportionately affected by mental health challenges due to gender dysphoria, discrimination, and other social stressors; and WHEREAS, there is a critical need for mental health services that are specifically tailored to address the unique challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community; and WHEREAS, providing access to specialized counseling services can significantly improve the mental health and overall well-being of individuals experiencing gender dysphoria and the effects of discrimination; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin is committed to ensuring that all its residents have access to the mental health resources they need to live healthy, fulfilling lives; and WHEREAS, investing in targeted mental health services for the LGBTQIA+ community not only supports those in immediate need but also contributes to the broader public health goals of the city; Page 2 of 3 NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the LGBTQ Quality of Life Commission recommends that the Austin City Council allocate $80,000 to develop and fund initiatives that expand targeted mental health services for the LGBTQIA+ community, focusing on gender dysphoria, the effects of discrimination, and providing comprehensive counseling services. Date of Approval: _____________________________ Record of the vote: Attest: _____________________________________________ (Staff or board member can sign) Page 3 of 3