The Colin Wolf Foundation and Pride Haven Illuminate a Path for Homeless LGBTQ+ Youth
At The Colin Wolf Foundation, we believe every young person deserves a safe and supportive haven, regardless of background, orientation, or identity.
We're thrilled to announce a grant to Pride Haven, a transformative housing program of SAVE, Inc. in Kansas City, Missouri. This grant will provide support for one homeless queer youth throughout their journey at Pride Haven and into being rehomed. This partnership is more than just funding; it's a beacon of hope for LGBTQ+ youth facing the harsh realities of homelessness and a powerful demonstration of our shared mission to Prevent, Provide, and Prepare.
Pride Haven: A Journey of Rebuilding Lives:
Pride Haven isn't just a roof over a head; it's a lifeline. This program provides safe and supportive housing for up to 20 LGBTQ+ youth at a time, 150 of whom are ages 18-24 each year. But Pride Haven goes far beyond shelter. It offers a holistic approach, addressing the unique needs of each resident and embodying our shared missions.
Providing for the under-homed:
Comprehensive Case Management: Connecting residents with vital resources like healthcare, education, and employment opportunities.
Mental Health Support: Providing access to therapists and counselors specializing in LGBTQ+ issues.
Life Skills Training: Equipping residents with the skills needed for independent living, from budgeting to cooking.
Peer Support Groups: Fostering community and belonging through shared experiences.
Preventing the Cycle:
But our commitment continues beyond there. Both The Colin Wolf Foundation and Pride Haven understand that Prevention is critical. Through educational programs and resources, we aim to tackle the root causes of homelessness, such as family rejection and bullying, before they lead youth down a challenging path. By supporting organizations like Pride Haven, we ensure that vulnerable youth have access to safe spaces and support networks, hopefully preventing them from experiencing homelessness in the first place.
Preparing for a Brighter Future:
Finally, both organizations focus on Preparing youth for a successful future. The Colin Wolf Foundation offers outcome-focused grant opportunities, supporting youth toward a successful future. Pride Haven empowers residents with life skills training and peer support groups, equipping them with the tools and confidence to thrive independently. This collaborative approach ensures that their time at Pride Haven launches them toward self-sufficiency and long-term stability.
This grant, intended to support one homeless youth throughout their journey at Pride Haven, embodies the spirit of our shared mission. It's not just about a bed or a meal; it's about opening doors to education, employment, and a brighter future.
The Plight of LGBTQ+ Youth Homelessness:
The statistics paint a grim picture. 40% of the 4.2 million youth experiencing homelessness identify as LGBTQ+. They are 120% more likely to experience homelessness than their straight and cisgender counterparts. This vulnerability stems from a multitude of factors, including family rejection, discrimination, and lack of access to LGBTQ+-affirmative resources.
LGBTQ+ youth who experienced homelessness or housing instability reported higher rates of mental health challenges, such as depression, anxiety, self-harm, considering suicide, and attempting suicide, compared to their stably housed LGBTQ peers. BIPOC LGBTQ+ youth have an 83% higher risk of experiencing homelessness when compared to their non-BIPOC counterparts and face additional barriers due to racism and discrimination.
In your community, LGBTQ+ youth experience a harsh reality. Kicked out of their homes for their identity, they couch-surf. Rejection becomes a constant hurdle, and they struggle to find stable housing and necessities. These challenges overshadow their dreams as they fight for immediate survival.
Together, we can illuminate the path for LGBTQ+ youth facing homelessness. Join us in supporting Pride Haven and The Colin Wolf Foundation as we work to ensure that every young person has the opportunity to shine.
"Pride Haven couldn't be more appreciative of the Colin Wolf Foundation's generous grant. Thanks to wonderful organizations like this one, Pride Haven can continue to serve the most vulnerable and continue to change lives." -Richard Thompson, SAVE, Inc.
Visit HTTP://thecolinproject.org and HTTP://saveinckc.org to learn more about how you can get involved.
Let's shine a light on hope together.
