Sylvia's Place

As of 2007, Sylvia's Place is part of MCCNY's Homeless Youth Services.

Please visit our new website:

http://www.homelessyouthservices.org

Sylvia Rae Rivera, 1951-2002, was a Stonewall Riots Veteran and LGBTQ/Drag Queen activist. Many will remember Sylvia as the Coordinator of the Food Pantry for Metropolitan Community Church of New York where she was a member.  On her deathbed she insisted that Rev. Pat Bumgardner promise the church would create accommodation so that LGBTQ Youth could find a safe space to spend the night when all other options were exhausted.

Born from that promise is ‘Sylvia's Place’, an emergency night shelter for self identified Gay, Lesbian, Bi-sexual, transgendered, transsexual and questioning youth from 16 to 23 years of age.  Its primary focus is to provide a safe space, a good meal, bathroom facilities and toiletries, a cot for the night and breakfast in the morning.  The Care Workers provide a listening ear, affirmation, and a friendly voice of encouragement.

Sylvia Rae Rivera

1951 - 2002