OCEANSIDE — The North County LGBTQ Resource Center has officially closed escrow on its new home in Apple Plaza.
The center spent the last nine months raising enough funds for the down payment – a goal of at least $1.3 million – on the 1919 Apple St. property in Oceanside.
The non-profit moved into the new space back in September, however the actual close of escrow date was Jan. 31.
Also known as Apple Plaza, the new location will also serve as the city for the city’s new safe overnight parking lot program.
“Raising over $1 million for the down payment was daunting, and at times, even scary,” shared Max Disposti, executive director and founder of the center. “Through it all, we felt the love, strength, and unwavering support of the community rallying behind us. You showed up. You believed in this dream and together, we made it a reality.”
For Disposti, the center’s new, permanent location is “a home, a sanctuary, and a statement in resistance in a time when the LGBTQ+ community is under attack.”
“As we face threats from this administration, our community support remains critical,” Disposti said. “Every donation helps us fight back, expand our programs, and ensure that our community remains safe and organized.”
According to the center, some of its funding could be at risk if the Trump administration further rescinds support for grants and other funding opportunities and protections for LGBTQ+ individuals and households. This potential loss of funding comes at a time when the center needs it most, as its support services have grown and its requests for assistance have increased in the North County region.
The center became a nonprofit in 2008 and has operated in North County since opening its first location in 2011.
Today, the center employs 26 staff members and provides a variety of services including case management for housing needs, homelessness services, support for victims of violence and crimes, food distribution and HIV preventative services.
The center also just started its reproductive rights services and immigration programming to support asylum seekers.
To learn more about the North County LGBTQ Resource Center, visit ncresourcecenter.org or call the center at 760-994-1690.
