Metro East Pride Gives Back to the Community

Being a part of the entire Metro East Community, which includes Jersey, Madison, St. Clair, Clinton and Monroe counties, we pride ourselves on giving back to the community at large. Each year, we try to give back a little more since we receive so much support from many individuals, organizations and businesses. In fiscal 2019-20 Metro East Pride has donated over $3,000 to various groups, individuals and causes. This ranges from the Belleville Back to School Backpack Program to the Project of One meal for a family in desperate need to sponsoring LGBTQ+ seniors in our community at Christmas, both financially and socially. We also contributed financially to the Volunteer Appreciation Party sponsored by Club Escapade, the Pride STL Community Christmas DInner and numerous individuals and families in need. One of our most impactful contributions was our Care Packages and Clothing Drive for the Homeless this past winter. In addition to providing those in need with coats, hats, gloves, socks and scarves, we also distributed care packages consisting of health and beauty items and several snacks, with all additional clothing donated to TOCO Shop in Belleville and several shelters throughout the Metro East area.  

​Back to School Backpack Program

For the past several years, Metro East Pride has been a key sponsor of Belleville Chamber's Back to School Backpack Program where they give away over 1,000 backpacks to students in need. This is a great way to impact the community that has been very generous and accepting of Metro East Pride.


​O'Fallon Illuminated Holiday Parade

Metro East Pride not only participated in the O'Fallon Illuminated Holiday Parade, we sponsored a city float when several sponsors backed out this year and we manned the face painting booth for all children after the parade.

DCFS Event Sponsor

DCFS offers dedicated resources for it's LGBTQ+ members. Metro East Pride has assisted with their Pride Night, sponsored their Christmas Party and hosted a Games Night for these students. We plan to involve them with Metro East Pride Fest - not only as participants, but as volunteers to allow them to give back to their community!

Alton Pride Fall Festival

Metro East Pride has been a sponsor of Alton Pride Fall Festival since they began talking about a festival. In addition to meeting with Alton City officials and providing guidance on holding an event of this nature, Metro East Pride gave a financial donation to help them get started with securing the venue for their event. 

MEPSI in Action