U.S. Sen. Bob Casey (D-Pa.) visited the Mazzoni Center on Thursday to announce $400,000 in community project funding for the center. The funding will be used to modernize the center’s basic equipment, such as vitals machines, security systems, and air conditioning. Additionally, it will enable Mazzoni to purchase a generator.
David Weisberg, the executive development and communications officer at Mazzoni Center, expressed that many clients feel safe coming to the center for care. The comprehensive health and wellness center is the largest LGBTQ nonprofit in Philadelphia, serving 15,000 clients annually with a staff of 130. Dr. Stacey Trooskin, the executive medical officer at the center, highlighted the medical services provided, including gender affirming care, HIV care, medication for opioid use disorder, and primary care. The center aims to be a one-stop-shop for all patients.
Last year, Mazzoni Center administered over 5,500 vaccines to patients and conducted lab work for over 7,200 visits, including more than 100 patients receiving HIV medication each month. Having access to a generator is crucial for providing continuous care to patients. The federal funding will also support the expansion of low threshold services for STI testing, HIV testing, and viral hepatitis testing at their Washington West location.
Sen. Casey expressed his gratitude for being able to announce this funding during Pride month. Sultan Shakir, president and executive officer of Mazzoni Center, acknowledged the impact the funding will have on providing culturally competent care to individuals in the community. This funding was secured as part of the Fiscal Year 2024 government funding bill.