Preventing and Ending LGBTQ Youth Homelessness: HUD Issues Historic Guidance and Launches First of its Kind Effort with True Colors Fund

This blog from the United States Interagency Council on Homelessness spotlights efforts from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to reduce homelessness among Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, or Queer/Questioning (LGBTQ) youth. Approximately 40 percent of youth experiencing homelessness identify as LGBTQ and therefore, have a higher risk of depression, abuse, suicide, and substance use. The HUD guidance, issued under the Equal Access Rule to Housing in HUD Programs Regardless of Sexual Orientation or Gender Identify Rule, ensures HUD-funded programs are open to eligible individuals regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, and now also requires single-sex shelters to consider transgender individuals’ own views with respect to personal health and safety.