By Keely Baribeau

The Community Foundation of St. Clair County is gifting the historic Atrium Building at 1519 Military Street in downtown Port Huron to Blue Water Allies, a local nonprofit supporting the LGBTQ+ community. After leasing and using the space for the past several years, Blue Water Allies will now call the building its permanent home—a place to foster education, connection, and support.

“We originally planned for this former restaurant building to serve as an incubator for emerging food entrepreneurs,” said Patti Manley, the Community Foundation’s Board Chair. “Those plans changed, and as the saying goes, when one door closes, another door opens. The Foundation is fortunate to be in the position where we are able to support our friends at Blue Water Allies.”

Blue Water Allies formed in late 2022 and was born out of the Ally Project, which originated as a fund of the McLaren Port Huron Foundation. The fund has long supported LGBTQ+ health, wellness, and community initiatives—and helped launch the Blue Water Ally Center, which continues to serve as a vital gathering space for LGBTQIA+ individuals.

Barbara Payton, Director of Blue Water Allies, said the building is emblematic of the organization’s mission. “The building itself reflects our unique, creative and diverse community. It mirrors the gifts we each bring when we feel safe to truly express ourselves and honor who we are meant to be. It’s not just a space — it’s a symbol of belonging and authenticity.”

The Center offers a wide array of programming to meet the community’s needs, including a transgender support group, Narcotics Anonymous meetings, creative writing and painting classes, a chess club, garden club with guest speakers, and so much more. The organization also hosts annual events such as Blue Water Pride and collaborates with other groups to provide forest walks, self-defense classes, HIV education, and town halls.

The building has also served as a hub during downtown Port Huron’s Art Hop events and houses critical resources such as a free food pantry, a free library, and a gender-affirming clothing closet. Music is a central feature at the Center, with garden parties, open stage nights, and live performances featuring drag, musicians, and spoken word artists.

“Our building is a true haven,” added Payton. “It provides space for our community to evolve together, to problem solve and to care for a place that — like us — deserves love, attention and nurturing.”

Support the Ally Project Fund

The Community Foundation is a proud supporter of Blue Water Allies and their permanent gathering space for the LGBTQ+ community. To support their mission or become a donor, please consider giving to the Ally Project Fund, which continues to support programs, projects, and services for LGBTQ+ individuals—especially in the areas of healthcare, mental health, and community-building. Learn more at stclairfoundation.org/fund/ally-project-fund.