LGBTQ Community & Sex Workers Outreach Project Aim To Save Cuties

EAST HOLLYWOOD, Calif.—Cuties Coffee has only been in business for a little more than a year, but in that time, it's become the go-to hangout for East Hollywood's LGBTQ community—and beyond. However, what with LA rents skyrocketing and other expenses increasing, Cuties has fallen on hard times, and rumors about its impending closing have been circulating for a couple of months now. But LA's Sex Workers' Outreach Project and others are working to change all that.
 
According to adult performer Phoenix Dawn, "Cuties is a LBGTQ-focused social meeting space not only for the adult community but for the young, which is extremely important." In fact, according to an article posted on LA.Eater.com, it takes about $12,000 a month just to keep the doors open, and Cuties established a Patreon account just to collect donations from members and supporters.
 
According to the LA.Eater.com website, "Owners Virginia Bauman and Iris Bainum-Houle were on a mission when opening their queer cafe and gathering spot last year... Cuties is a unique space that does more than just serve coffee. Many events are designed to make a difference for trans and queer youth, including partnerships with salons to provide haircuts, a program to help find housing for those in need, along with clothing and toiletry donations."
 
Cuties is located at 710 N. Heliptrope Dr., Los Angeles 90029.
 
The LA Times noted that Bauman and Bainum-Houle "wanted to create a casual hangout that’s welcoming to all members of the LGBTQ community, regardless of age or gender identity... In most cities, the lion’s share of LGBTQ-centered establishments are bars and clubs that primarily cater to gay men who are cisgender, meaning their gender identity matches the sex they were assigned at birth. Greater L.A. is no exception. Although West Hollywood is nationally renowned as a mecca for gay men, that’s not necessarily the case for lesbians or transgender people. Given this void, Cuties has quickly become the daytime darling of L.A.’s queer social ecosystem. But despite a loyal customer base, Cuties—the only LGBTQ-focused coffee shop in L.A.—is fighting to stay open."
 
But fundraising has fallen short, so SWOP has helped create Harmonia, A Harvest Party to Save Cuties Coffee! The get-together, which will feature several live performances including one by the adult industry's Bella Bathory, will take place around the corner from Cuties, at Faultline, 4216 Melrose Ave., and is scheduled to run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday, October 27.
 
Those interested may read more about Cuties Café and Harmonia on the get-together's Facebook page.