On Tuesday, April 21, 2026, Pittsburgh Leather Pride, LLC and the Barons of Steel presented a $1,438.93 donation to Proud Haven, supporting the organization’s work with LGBTQIA+ youth experiencing homelessness in the Pittsburgh region.
The funds were raised through an online charity auction held in support of Steel City Fetish Con 2025. Members of the Pittsburgh community contributed items, which were auctioned digitally to raise funds for local LGBTQ+ youth in need.
Proud Haven’s mission is to provide a safe, affirming shelter for LGBTQIA+ young people facing housing instability. The organization continues to serve as a vital resource for queer youth that are disproportionately impacted by homelessness.
The donation highlights the ongoing role of Pittsburgh’s leather and kink communities in grassroots mutual aid efforts through creatively mobilizing, connecting, and providing community care to meet urgent needs.
In addition to its shelter services, Proud Haven and the QMNTY Center will be open during NFL Draft Weekend, operating Thursday through Sunday from 1–6 p.m. with vendors and refreshments, offering community members an opportunity to engage directly with the space and its mission.
Community members looking to support Proud Haven can contribute through donations, volunteer opportunities, or by attending local events that benefit LGBTQIA+ housing initiatives. Supporting organizations like QMNTY and other local queer-led efforts also helps strengthen the broader network of care sustaining Pittsburgh’s LGBTQIA+ community.
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