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Though Bea Arthur died back in 2009, the Golden Girl continued to be a friend to the gay community from beyond the grave. In her will, the actress donated $300,000 to New York’s Ali Forney Center (AFC), an organization that provides shelter and supportive services to LGBTQ youth. NewNowNext reports AFC has announced its plans to open a new 18-bed shelter, the Bea Arthur Residence, in February 2017. Before her death, Arthur said, “These kids at the Ali Forney Center are literally dumped by their families because of the fact that they are lesbian, gay or transgender. This organization really is saving lives.” Once it opens, the Bea Arthur Residence will not only offer housing, but also on-site counseling.
