In Conversation with Sasha Nugent, Budmaster at Housing Works
This Pride month, we are donating a portion of sales to Housing Works. Here’s what you need to know about their mission
For anyone who’s not familiar with Housing Works, can you sum up the charity’s mission?
Housing Works is a healing community of people living with and affected by the dual crisis of HIV/AIDS and homelessness. Our mission is to end these crises through relentless advocacy, the provision of life-saving services, and entrepreneurial businesses that sustain our efforts. We have been involved in direct advocacy for over 30 years, fighting for the rights of those in marginalized communities. Our most recent venture into cannabis will further support our mission, as proceeds go directly to our life-saving services like healthcare, housing and LGBTQIA+ youth in crisis.
What does Pride mean to you?
A celebration and acknowledgement of the Gay Liberation Movement in the United States. More specifically Pride honors queer folk and pioneers who were involved in the 1969 Stonewall Uprising in Manhattan.
What is the biggest challenge Housing Work faces?
State funding. Most recently there have been budget cuts to life-saving services, like health clinics that serve our most vulnerable communities. Without proper funding, we won’t be able thrive as a non profit.
What’s the one thing you wish people knew about the issues the charity faces?
I really wish people understood how state and city funding directly impacts what we do and who we serve. Budget cuts coming from local and state governments can negatively impact our service to marginalized communities.
Who is a face to watch in your organization?
Charles King, our CEO. Charles has been with Housing Works since its inception. He pioneered (and continues to pioneer) advocacy that directly impacted communities devastated by the AIDS epidemic. Charles is always at the forefront of so many social justice issues, and has an amazing knack for rallying the Housing Works troops to advocate and protest on behalf of those who cannot advocate for themselves.
Could you share a story that has stayed with you about someone you’ve helped?
One of the first times I truly understood how our entrepreneurial businesses can change lives was when I was working at one of our thrift shops. A client came in to thank the staff for the work we were doing, explaining that every sale we made directly impacted their life. Before that, I never imagined that one upcycled dress could translate into a trip to a clinic, or a reused bag could mean healthcare for someone in need. This was a powerful moment for me, and I always refer back to it whenever I need a reminder of why I do what I do.
How are you celebrating Pride this year?
We plan on having a big celebration with music and light refreshments for guests while they shop! We'll also ask our customers if they'd like to make a charitable donation to Housing Works during the month of June.
Can you tell me more about Housing Works Dispensary, and your role?
Housing Works Cannabis Co is New York's first legal Adult Use Recreational Dispensary. We opened on December 29th 2022 and entered New York's nascent market with proceeds going directly to our non-profit and its efforts. I'm the Budmaster/Retail manager and I manage all day-to-day operations.
Do you have any upcoming initiatives that you’re particularly excited about?
We are really excited about our delivery and membership program. We currently deliver to various zip codes in Manhattan and Brooklyn and are looking to expand into Queens in the next few weeks.
How can people get involved with Housing Works?
Anyone can sign up to be a member of our community! That way you can keep up with future advocacies and events at any of our thrift shops and also at Housing Works Cannabis Co! To find out more, please visit www.housingworks.org .
