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- The (Bi)weekly Kiki | Dec. 14
The (Bi)weekly Kiki | Dec. 14
Meriden Pride Community Center
This holiday season, we feel a deep gratitude. In the midst of uncertainty and hardship this year, our community continued to show up for one another with resilience, care, and courage.
Thank you for being part of Meriden Pride. We say it a lot, but we really mean it—we are stronger together. We can’t wait to forge through 2026 together.
P.S. Make sure to check the events for important dates! We have closures.
-The Meriden Pride Team
Table of Contents
This Moment in Queerstory 🪶
HIV Cure Research Day
HIV Cure Research Day (Dec. 14) raises awareness about global efforts to develop a cure and underscores why the work remains urgent. Even with today’s effective treatments, HIV still has no broadly available cure, and many communities continue to face stigma, disparities in care, and barriers to information. The day brings together scientists, advocates, and those living with HIV to highlight progress, promote community involvement, and keep momentum strong.
🔗 What’s new in research:
Small study shows a promising path toward HIV cure: Antiretroviral drugs that prevent HIV and keep it in check have been transformative, but a cure has been a long-sought goal
‘Is this my last pill ever?’ UCSF therapy offers patients a hint at a cure for HIV
Broadly neutralising antibodies plus immune modulator may delay HIV rebound
✊ 7 ways you can make an impact on HIV cure research:
Advocate for Funding: Lobby legislators for increased research funds
Educate Local Communities: Host workshops, seminars, and events to raise awareness
Foster Collaboration: Partner with different community groups
Facilitate Discussion: Create safe spaces for people to discuss HIV and cure research
Engage the Youth: Inspire and involve young people in the fight to end the HIV epidemic
Promote Awareness: Use social media, talk to your faith leaders and community groups about HIV
Mobilize volunteers to support events, community education, and events
December Events ☃️
Please check our Facebook pages to RSVP to events. If you’re not already a member, join the private group for Meriden Pride. (Main FB page | Private group)
Note: We will be closed on December 27 (including the food pantry).
12/17, Gayme Night. 5-8 p.m. @ Meriden Pride Center
12/28, Christmas Brunch. 10:30 a.m.-noon(ish) @ Unitarian Universalist Congregational Church
Observances
(14) HIV Cure Research Day
Visit Our Food Bank & Coat Closet 🍽️+🧥
The Meriden Pride Center Food Bank remains open on Saturdays and Sundays from 12–4 PM unless otherwise noted. (We will be closed Dec. 27). Please remember to bring a valid photo ID and your own bags.
How you can help:
Volunteer to staff the center/pantry
Donate new or lightly worn winter coats, gloves, scarves, and hats
Volunteer Opportunities 🙌
Connect with the local LGBTQ+ community! We’d love to have your help at events. Please fill out a volunteer form if you would like to volunteer with us.
Right now, we need volunteers for:
Assisting with the food pantry on Saturdays and Sundays
Staffing the center with a committee member on Saturdays and Sundays
Email us at [email protected] if you have any questions. We are stronger together!
About the Community Center 🌈
The Meriden Pride Community Center offers a wide range of free resources and support services to empower and assist the community, including:
Sexual health supplies such as male and female condoms, dental dams, and lubrication
Free at-home COVID-19 test kits, Narcan overdose prevention kits, and blood glucose meters for health monitoring
Assistance with applications for heating and renters’ reimbursement programs
Personalized help connecting to broader city and state services
Borrowing books from our LGBTQ+ library
Complimentary internet and printing access
Committed to holistic support, the center strives to address immediate and long-term needs through its inclusive and accessible offerings.
Community Center Hours
Saturdays, 12-4 p.m.
Sundays, 12-4 p.m.
Donate to the Center 💝
Every donation fuels our mission to uplift the Greater Meriden LGBTQ+ community through free, accessible programming that celebrates identity, fosters belonging, and sparks joy. From inclusive workshops and peer support networks to vibrant Pride events and educational resources, we create safe spaces where LGBTQ+ individuals can thrive. Led entirely by volunteers, our work is powered by your generosity—ensuring queer voices are heard, stories are celebrated, and no one faces barriers to connection. Together, we’re building a world where everyone can live authentically, proudly, and without compromise.