Boston is grappling with a significant $50 million budget shortfall, a challenge demanding difficult choices for city officials. Yet, a program funded by taxpayer dollars is offering wellness allowances to a specific group: queer and trans migrants and refugees.
The “Belonging Matters” program, spearheaded by the Boston-based nonprofit OUTnewcomers, provides vouchers ranging from $250 to $500. These funds are intended for non-clinical wellness services, including yoga, meditation, massage, and even gym memberships.
Eligibility is restricted to low-income, isolated queer and trans individuals seeking asylum or refugee status within Boston city limits. The program aims to support their mental health and overall well-being through these alternative therapies.
OUTnewcomers operates in direct partnership with the Mayor’s Office for Immigrant Advancement, an agency under the leadership of Mayor Michelle Wu. This collaboration highlights a focused allocation of city resources.
In March, the Mayor’s Office awarded over $1.3 million in grants to various organizations, including OUTnewcomers, specifically for legal aid, mental health support, and community initiatives. The vast majority of this funding originates from the City of Boston’s operating budget.
The founder of OUTnewcomers, Sal Khan, is a migrant activist from Pakistan who openly identifies as queer. Known by the stage name Miss Chilly Masala, Khan has been a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ migrant rights.
Khan’s personal struggles with mental health, including PTSD, depression, and anxiety, became public after an incident in May of last year led to his arrest on an MBTA bus. He described the event as a “major relapse” in his ongoing journey.
Following public reaction to the arrest, OUTnewcomers defended the program, stating it provides modest vouchers – typically $50 or less – for services like haircuts and acupuncture. They also emphasized the program’s intention to support local businesses.
However, a discrepancy exists between the organization’s promotional flyer, which advertises allowances of $250 to $500, and their subsequent statement downplaying the voucher amounts. This inconsistency has raised questions about the program’s scope and funding distribution.
The allocation of these funds, amidst a substantial city deficit, has sparked debate about priorities and the equitable distribution of limited resources within Boston.
