Speak Out : LGBTQ Homelessness

For most of us, we’re spending our holidays either in the comfort of our own homes, or in the homes of our family. We’re probably gathered around the table, most enjoyed a nice dinner or watching some Christmas special on television.

But for a lot of LGBTQ youth who’ve found themselves without a home, their holidays is spent either on the streets or in shelters all across the country. And their situation, unfortunately, has not gotten better over the years.

Early in 2016, for instance, The Washington Post put out a report that revealed that a study of DC’s homeless youth revealed that 43 percent of the 330 known homeless youth in DC identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual or transgender.

The census only reaffirms a national survey conducted by UCLA in 2012, which found out that 40 percent of the clientele served by homeless centers and agencies that serve youth are members of the LGBTQ community.

And those shelters may not always be the most welcoming either. The National LGBTQ Task Force also put out a study that revealed among homeless transgender adults, 5 percent have reported being harassed by shelter staff; 29 percent have reported being turned away by shelters because of their gender identity; and 22 percent have reported being sexually assaulted by residents or staff.

During this season of giving, those of us who can give can maybe look into helping out the number of LGBTQ homeless youth shelters all over the country. The True Colors Fund has a list of shelters that serves LGBTQ homeless youth here. Any help that you can extend will go a long way in alleviating the situation that LGBTQ homeless youth face.

Happy Holidays to all!