ABOVE: Kori Stevens. Photo by Dylan Todd.
TAMPA BAY | Friends, family and fans are raising funds for local legend Kori Stevens as the longtime drag entertainer and LGBTQ advocate recovers from surgery.
St. Petersburg’s Denny Newton launched a GoFundMe Jan. 5, just after Stevens announced he would undergo surgery requiring an extensive recovery period. Supporters initially hoped to raise $5,000 to supplement Stevens’ loss of income and are now seeking $10,000.
“Currently Kori is recovering from some surgery that is putting her out of commission for a while,” the GoFundMe reads. “As we all know not only is Kori a diva on stage she also is one of TOP designers for the Bay Area Drag Scene.
“Her work can be seen all over the country as well as ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race,'” it continues. “This being said, sewing is a huge part of her income and without being able to use her feet as normal this will [be] difficult. Being the humble person Kori is, she would never ask for help.”
Newton reiterated Stevens’ needs to Watermark Jan. 6.
“Basically whenever anyone reaches out to Kori for help, whether it be for a costume, to have a show or do a fundraiser, she always helps out,” he says. “Kori is not one to ever ask for help but being a lifelong friend/family member, I put my foot down this time.”
Newton and local entertainers are also planning a benefit for Stevens, expected to take place in Tampa Bay this month. Watermark will update this story once details are finalized.
“I wanted to get it started now before she would ever become in a position to be behind on bills, food or medical needs,” Newton adds.
More than $8,000 has been raised for Stevens as of Jan. 14. “Every cent collected will go directly to Kori to help with all expenses that she will accrue during recovery,” the GoFundMe promises.
In addition to the fundraiser, local entertainers will also hold a benefit show Jan. 23. #WeLoveKoriStevens will be held at Enigma in St. Petersburg beginning at 8 p.m.
“Make plans to join us as we raise funds to get our sister (and a leader in our community) back on her feet after her medical procedure,” the Facebook event reads. “There will be guest drag performances, a 50/50 raffle, raffles with prizes and plenty of opportunity for you to send some love to our girl.”
To learn more or make a donation to Stevens’ GoFundMe, click here. View additional details about the benefit here.
