Urgency of the Resource Bus Initiative: Addressing HIV and Health Disparities in Rural North Texas

The LGBTQIA+ Resource Bus is more than a project; it's a lifeline for underserved rural communities in North Texas, where critical gaps in health services and information are putting lives at risk.

The Need
Our recent findings from Parker, Palo Pinto, Erath, Hood, Eastland, and Stephens Counties reveal alarming health disparities, particularly in HIV incidence and access to essential services. HIV rates are disproportionately high among older age groups, with the 45-54 age group being most affected. Yet, younger populations (13-24) show no reported cases, indicating a severe lack of engagement with testing and outreach in these communities.

Additionally, racial minorities, particularly Black and Hispanic individuals, are disproportionately impacted, making up a significant portion of HIV cases despite their smaller population size. Male-to-male sexual contact remains the leading cause of transmission, emphasizing the need for targeted education on safe sex practices within the LGBTQ community. Injection drug use is also a critical issue, further demonstrating the need for harm reduction services such as clean needle exchanges.

Our Plan
The LGBTQIA+ Resource Bus will address these critical gaps by expanding its reach to more rural areas, providing HIV/STI testing kits, clean needle drop points, and safe sex kits. Additionally, the bus will offer LGBTQ-specific educational materials, free clothing, chest binders, and LGBTQ books. This mobile service will focus on underserved populations, particularly Black, Hispanic, and transgender communities, to help reduce rising HIV rates and health disparities.

Funding Needs
To bring this expansion to life, we need to raise $15,000-$18,000. This will cover the costs of acquiring and retrofitting a retired bus, insurance, fuel, and other operational expenses for the first year.

• Bus Acquisition: $10,000

• Retrofitting (Generator, Solar Panels, Lighting, Shelving): $2,000-$3,000

• Insurance: $1,800 (12 months at $150/month)

• Fuel: $2,400-$4,800 (12 months at $200-$400/month)

• Miscellaneous Costs (Maintenance, Emergency Repairs): $500

How You Can Help
This initiative relies on the generosity and support of our community. Here’s how you can get involved:

1. Donate: Every contribution helps us bring essential resources to those who need them most. You can donate directly through our website.

2. Volunteer: The Resource Bus is entirely volunteer-operated. If you’re passionate about making a difference, consider joining our team to help distribute supplies and provide information on LGBTQIA+ health and wellness.

3. Partner With Us: We are actively seeking partnerships with local businesses, hospitals, police stations, fire departments, and universities. By providing a safe space for the bus to operate, you can help us expand our reach and impact.

4. Spread the Word: Follow us on social media, share our mission, and help raise awareness about the critical need for these services in rural North Texas.

The Impact
By supporting the Resource Bus, you are helping to bring life-saving services to underserved communities. Together, we can reduce health disparities, improve access to care, and create a safer, more inclusive environment for LGBTQIA+ individuals in rural North Texas.