After a decade-long struggle, Toronto will be the first North American city to finally get a homeless shelter for LGBTQ youth who are transitioning. The development of this shelter has emerged alongside the approval of a new budget that aims to improve counselling and outreach services for homeless LGBTQ youth. There is a ton of work that needs to be done still for those who are most at risk, however this is a great step in the right direction.
As a side note, it is important to understand and analyze the larger issue at hand here. Why is it that LGBTQ youth are disproportionately represented in the homeless community? Is this because of parental attitudes? Social stigma? Systemic injustices? All? None? How can we, as individuals, make more of a difference in our cities and areas to improve circumstances and living situations for these at risk youths? There are some really important questions that deserve exploration.
Even though advocates still say this is not enough, it is a great start. Perhaps, it is what is needed to get momentum going on continuing progress in Toronto, and other cities across the country!
http://torontoist.com/2015/03/inside-canadas-first-lgbtq-transitional-housing-program/
Thanks to Krystle for bringing my attention to this article!
Exploring: Gender and Sexuality 