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Kawaguchi O'Connor Initiative (KOI)

Trans-affirmingLast updated Jun 2026

About

The Kawaguchi O'Connor Initiative (KOI) is a Washington-based, trans-led mutual aid nonprofit that helps trans people leave legislatively hostile states and resettle somewhere safer. For accepted evacuees it arranges and funds transportation, and for those relocating to Washington it offers temporary housing with volunteer hosts, help with necessities like grocery and transit cards, and connections to Apple Health (Medicaid), WorkSource, and Seattle Housing Authority programs. KOI focuses on younger and early-transition folks who need more hands-on support, and pairs evacuees with a care coordinator. Apply or learn more through their Need Help page.

Communities centered

Trans & nonbinaryLGBTQ+

Services offered

Financial assistanceHousing helpCase management
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