North Texas, Texas – In a recent interview with The Advocate, representatives from the North Texas Transportation Network (NTTN) shed light on their crucial role in providing essential support to families of transgender and gender-diverse minors impacted by Texas Senate Bill 14. This legislation significantly restricted health care access for transgender minors, prompting the formation of NTTN—an initiative dedicated to funding out-of-state travel for essential medical appointments.
Cynthia Daniels, the executive director for NTTN, explained, “Our organization supplies travel grants to families of trans or gender diverse minors who are now having to seek their much-needed health care out of state.” Families residing in the 19 North Texas counties can apply for these grants through NTTN’s website.
The grants, offering up to $1,000, can be utilized twice a year for various travel expenses, including lodging, airfare, and food. Daniels emphasized that the parent or guardian should apply, providing essential details such as a scheduled appointment date and a referral to confirm eligibility.
“This really is about neighbors helping neighbors”
Despite its recent establishment in late August, NTTN has already begun making a difference. Four families are currently funded, and Daniels expressed anticipation for aiding many more, considering the estimated 30,000 trans or gender-diverse minors residing in Texas.
Reverend Katie Hays of Galileo Church, a partner in this initiative, highlighted their longstanding commitment to LGBTQ+ justice. Clarifying that while rooted in the Christian faith, there’s no religious prerequisite for assistance. Addressing religious discrimination often faced by the LGBTQ+ community, Hays advocated for an inclusive understanding of religion, aligning with NTTN’s overarching mission.
Daniels underscored that the primary aim is to ensure families are aware of this support, emphasizing that the focus is solely on facilitating necessary health care, not funding surgeries. NTTN earnestly seeks donations to continue this vital support, with Hays proudly sharing that all administrative costs are borne by Galileo Church, ensuring every donated dollar directly assists the families in need.
Learn more about the North Texas TRANSportation Network in the video below.
