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Council funds Kaleidoscope Youth Center and approves LabCorp contract modification for public‑health clinic
Summary
Council approved grant funding to Kaleidoscope Youth Center and authorized a LabCorp contract modification to support testing services at a public‑health wellness center.
Columbus City Council approved legislation to fund Kaleidoscope Youth Center (KYC) and to modify a contract with Laboratory Corporation of America (LabCorp) to support testing at a public‑health site.
Kaleidoscope: Council adopted an ordinance authorizing the city clerk to enter into a grant agreement with Kaleidoscope Youth Center to support general operations and capacity building. The ordinance text as read into the record stated an appropriation of $65,000 within the Neighborhoods Initiative sub‑fund and also referenced authorizing the expenditure of $100,000 within that sub‑fund. Council members and KYC representatives framed the funding as support for the drop‑in center’s nonclinical services for LGBTQIA+ youth; KYC leaders described tens of thousands of visits over recent years and said the center provides safe, free services that increase protective factors for young people.
LabCorp contract: Separately, the council approved a modification to an existing contract with Laboratory Corporation of America Holdings to expand laboratory testing services at a public health wellness center for the period March 1, 2025–March 1, 2026; the ordinance authorized an emergency appropriation not to exceed $25,000 from the Health Department grant fund to avoid disruption of services. The contract supports testing for gynecological and urological concerns, sexually transmitted infections, HIV PrEP, Pap and HPV testing and related diagnostics.
Outcome: Both ordinances passed on roll call.
Why it matters: the Kaleidoscope grant supports programs serving LGBTQIA+ youth at a time when advocates say state and federal pressures have increased demand on local supports. The LabCorp modification ensures continuity of clinical laboratory services at a public‑health site.
Ending: Council members emphasized the public‑health and youth‑support rationale for the funding and noted the city’s role in supporting nonprofit community safety nets.
