“We don’t clock out”: Frontline workers serving queer and trans youth provide crisis support off the side of their desks — and it’s causing burnout

Mutual aid is a lifeline for 2SLGBTQ+ youth who have nowhere else to turn in emergencies

Why It Matters

While dealing with a lack of funding for emergency support, those within 2SLGBTQ+ organizations step up to help their community. This effective form of mutual aid and crisis support have long existed but support needs to exist across the sector. Community-serving organizations need to learn how to incorporate mutual aid into their services and bake it into their structure.

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Charlie Murphy’s phone doesn’t stop ringing. 

Every day his phone buzzes with calls, texts, and emails from queer and trans youth looking for help. Some are struggling with food insecurity and need money for groceries; others are trying to find a safe place to live. Sometimes it’s parents wondering how they can support their trans child. 

As the executive director and only full time staff at Quadrangle, a registered  2SLGBTQ+ (2 spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer) charity in St. John’s, Newfoundland, Murphy easily works 50 to 60 hours a week. The organization focuses on educational

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