A Central Florida nonprofit, Zebra Youth, is making strides in providing essential transitional housing for unhoused LGBTQ+ young adults. With the opening of 12 new units, the organization aims to create a safe and affirming environment for youth aged 18 to 24 who have faced family rejection and homelessness.
Key Takeaways
- Zebra Youth is expanding its transitional housing program by adding 12 new units, increasing the total to 17.
- The program is designed for LGBTQ+ young adults aged 18 to 24 who have experienced homelessness or family rejection.
- Each participant receives a case manager to help them work towards self-sufficiency in a supportive environment.
The Need For Transitional Housing
In recent years, the need for supportive housing for LGBTQ+ youth has become increasingly evident. According to a study by The Trevor Project, 14% of LGBTQ youth reported sleeping away from home due to being kicked out or abandoned, with 40% citing their sexual orientation or gender identity as the reason.
Heather Wilkie, Executive Director of Zebra Youth, emphasizes the importance of creating a home-like atmosphere for these young adults. "You know, it’s such a place that feels like it’s home, right? That’s the idea behind what we’re doing. We want the space to look and feel like it is a home environment for them," she stated.
Supportive Environment
The transitional housing program is tailored to provide a nurturing and affirming environment. Upon acceptance, each young adult is assigned a case manager who assists them in developing life skills and accessing resources necessary for independence.
Wilkie explains, "We create that affirming environment that maybe they’re not accustomed to. We’re able to say, look, you’re okay for being who you are. We accept you and love you. And by the way, we have a lot of resources to help you to move toward self-sufficiency."
Voices From The Community
Community members, including Taraj Bryant and Melissa Sandeo, who have experienced housing instability in their youth, express their support for Zebra Youth’s mission. They highlight the importance of having safe spaces for LGBTQ+ youth to thrive.
Bryant notes, "Knowing they have chances to just be who they are and excel in a safe place, that’s a win for everybody pretty much."
Sandeo adds, "I just wish for more places, you know, and safe spaces for youth and the LGBTQ community. It is very important to just give that loving hand, you know, they just need that hand to just show them the right way sometimes."
How To Help
Zebra Youth is actively seeking donations to support their transitional housing program. Community members interested in contributing can visit their website or check out their Amazon Wish List to help provide essential resources for the youth they serve.
This initiative not only addresses the immediate housing needs of LGBTQ+ young adults but also fosters a sense of belonging and acceptance, crucial for their overall well-being and future success.
Sources
- Nonprofit provides transitional housing for unhoused LGBTQ+ young adults, WKMG.
- Nonprofit provides transitional housing for unhoused LGBTQ+ young adults, WKMG.
