Young people in Strathroy and the surrounding area have a welcoming place to meet others, make friends and enjoy time together through Strathroy Pride’s youth drop-in social.
The group offers a casual space for 2SLGBTQ+ youth, their friends and allies to connect through activities like baking, crafts, board games, video games and karaoke.
Frank Emanuele, chair of Strathroy Pride, says the goal is to give young people a place where they can feel comfortable and enjoy being themselves.
Emanuele says growing up as a queer youth in a rural community can sometimes feel isolating, especially when young people do not know others with similar experiences.
He says the drop-in is meant to provide a safe, welcoming environment where youth can spend time together without feeling pressure to discuss serious topics.
The group is also growing, with about 12 to 13 young people attending each session. Emanuele says youth have even started coming from outside the Strathroy area, including Komoka.
The drop-in is open to youth around high school age and up to about 19 or 20 years old. There is no registration required, and young people can stop by to see what it is like without committing to stay.
Strathroy Pride also recognizes that transportation can be a barrier for some youth.
The drop-in socials take place every other Wednesday from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at 34 Head Street North in Strathroy, behind St. John’s Church.
Upcoming dates include October 28th, November 11th, November 25th and December 9th.
Emanuele encourages interested youth to come out, meet new people and take part in the activities.
More information is available at strathroypride.org, or by contacting Strathroy Pride at strathroypride@gmail.com. The organization also shares updates on Facebook and Instagram.
