[4] The organizations beginning mission focused on hiring and training Black trans people as chefs who then would provide meals for fellow community members in the comfort of their homes.

[5] In light of social distancing requirements implemented in New York related to COVID-19, The Okra Project switched to providing groceries to Black trans people and raising money for mental health services.

The Okra Project has nation-wide reach, though most of the organization’s programs are specifically designed to facilitate aid to Black and brown Trans and gender non-conforming individuals across the NYC metro area.

Since its founding, The Okra Project has provided nearly $3 million in direct mutual aid, ad hoc programming, and partnerships to nearly 10,000 Black and brown Trans and gender non-conforming individuals across the country.

Legacy programs include rental, utilities, and grocery support; COVID-19 relief funds; and partnerships with companies like UberEats and BetterHelp aimed at providing access to safe transportation, meal and food delivery services, and mental health aid.