GHT Ambassador

Message from GHT Ambassador Jackie Crozier

My name is Jackie Crozier and, in addition to beagles, bikes and live music, one of the biggest passions is my role as an Ambassador for George House Trust. As an HIV organisation based in the North West, George House Trust’s ‘Welfare Fund’ is integral to many HIV positive individuals based in the region who are struggling in times of financial hardship. Be it assistance paying an electricity bill or the funds needed to replace a medication fridge, the Welfare Fund is an absolute lifeline to those who need it – and it is essential that we as a community support and contribute to it in any way we can.

It frightens me to think about the 1980s, when gay men were being struck down with HIV and AIDS, and emotional, financial and physical support was at a real low. To imagine my own friends in this situation frightens and appals me.

Thankfully these days we have treatments, but the issues for people living with HIV have not gone away. Stigma, discrimination and poverty are all issues that GHT helps to alleviate and I am grateful that we live in a time when groups such as George House Trust are able to support those who need it - But they cannot do it alone. They need OUR support.

Thankfully, the Trust has some fantastic friends and supporters, such as photographer Lee Baxter. ‘Gays of Manchester’ is a series of honest and provocative shots taken by Lee that demonstrate the diversity of Manchester’s LGBT community. And proceeds from the calendar go directly into George House Trust’s fund – an ideal Christmas present so get purchasing!

I am also a friend of the George House Trust – in fact an Ambassador for the organisation – and as a gay woman I want to help support my friends, our gay community, and help break down the stigma attached to the HIV AIDS virus. On top of this, I want to help raise funds for the organisation and its Welfare Fund, so Manchester’s LGBT community can continue together, united, with our heads held high.

Jackie Crozier is a Freelance Events Manager based in Manchester and is an Ambassador for the George House Trust. You can follow Jackie on Twitter at @jackiecrozier. You can purchase Lee Baxter’s calendar at http://www.ght.org.uk/gaysofmanchester

Published: 30-Nov-2013: (2203)