As Lesbian Bars Shutter Nationwide, Houston's Pearl Bar Gets Life-Sustaining Grant from Dating App

As Lesbian Bars Shutter Nationwide, Houston's Pearl Bar Gets Life-Sustaining Grant from Dating App

The scene outside Pearl Bar during Pride celebrations earlier this summer (photo from @pearlbarhouston on Facebook).

HOUSTON'S ONLY LESBIAN bar is receiving assistance from the dating app "designed to be deleted."


In partnership with The Lesbian Bar Project, dating app Hinge is committing at least $50,000 in stimulus payments to the few remaining lesbian bars across the nation, including the Washington Corridor's Pearl Bar. The fastest-growing dating app in the United States is also encouraging LGBTQIA+ singles to go on a date at select establishments, furthering the brand's mission, which is to create an inclusive world where everyone can find love, a representative for the app notes.

Users are encouraged to send a Rose — a premium like on the app — for a good cause this Sunday, Aug. 8. Hinge will donate net proceeds from the sale of Roses to The Lesbian Bar Project with stimulus payments split evenly among the participating bars.

Pearl Bar is said to be one of just two lesbian bars remaining in Texas. The Washington Avenue staple opened its doors in 2013.

"We deserve to spend our money where we are treated with respect and welcomed from the moment we walk in the door," said Pearl Bar owner Julie Mabry in a statement. "Somewhere where we can be who we are without worrying about our safety. Where our money is being recycled back in the community and supporting groups that spend their time fighting for our rights."

Elina Street, The Lesbian Bar Project co-director, in a release: "We are thrilled to continue to support lesbian bars through a new program with Hinge. As people begin to date in-person again, we encourage them to visit their local lesbian bars and help preserve the remaining, and vital, LGBTQIA+ establishments."

Wellness+Giving Back
Leadership in Action: ‘Family, Community and Spiritual Connection’ Drives Success for Henry Richardson

How did you get to where you are today? The present moment is a combined history of my family, my time as an athlete, my passion for learning, and my desire to see the world be better. I grew up as a successful springboard and platform diver, however, an injury caused me to seek alternative treatments to heal my body. In that process, I discovered the power of yoga, exercise, meditation, mindset, and nutrition. This holistic approach eventually led me to open a Pilates and cycling studio called DEFINE body & mind. I opened studios around the nation, and after selling most of my business between 2017-2019, I was ready to explore how I could make an even greater impact on the wellbeing of our community. In 2023, I started actively working on a brand new multi-family/apartment concept called, Define Living. The idea focused on offering health and wellness services within a beautiful apartment setting to increase the wellbeing of our residents. Having a strong sense of community is the number one factor in living a happy life, so why not build a community where daily fitness, cooking classes, and social connection are the norm? We opened Define Living in March of 2024, and we couldn’t be happier with how things are being received. We are already looking at building more concepts like this in the Houston area and beyond.

Keep Reading Show less

How did you get to where you are today? My journey to where I am today is built on a foundation of hard work, dedication, and perseverance. Every step along the way, I faced obstacles, but I approached each one with determination and a “never give up” mindset. Instead of being discouraged by challenges, I used them as opportunities to grow and improve. Consistency was key—I committed to showing up and giving my best effort every day. I also learned not to take “no” as a final answer. Instead, I saw it as a chance to push harder, adapt, and find another way forward. It’s this combination of persistence, resilience, and unwavering focus that has brought me to where I am today.

Keep Reading Show less

Murry & Karen Penner, Owners, M PENNER

How did you get where you are today? We’ve stayed true to the vision of the store’s founder, Morris Penner, who relentlessly sought out unique product, with exceptional quality being a key element. Morris always used to say, “The fastest way to lose a customer is to bore him” and we agree. A percentage of every season’s budget is allocated to something new and unique. While product is key, it’s not enough. Having an excellent staff and discipline in business practices is also critical.

Keep Reading Show less