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Through the support of Gulf Coast Partnership, a new organization has stepped up to the plate to increase housing services to Charlotte County youth experiencing homelessness. All Rainbow and Allied Youth (ARAY) became a FY 24-25 recipient of the Challenge Grant, dedicating funds to provide housing and case management to local youth 18-24, specializing in assisting LGBTQ+ youth.
As much as 40% of all youth homeless today are LGBTQ+. A 2019 report by True Colors United and the National LGBTQ Task Force found that “while [family] rejection is the most frequently cited reason LGBTQ youth experience homelessness, it’s not the only one. According to service providers, additional reasons include aging out of the foster care system, poverty, and abuse in the home.” As a queer-led organization, ARAY is uniquely qualified to meet the varied needs of LGBTQ+ youth in Charlotte County, Florida.
In just one month of operation, ARAY’s Director of Housing Case Management has placed four youth in stable, safe, and inclusive housing. All youth in this program will have access to culturally competent mental and physical health providers, peer support groups, and referrals to the resources they need to succeed and thrive.
Board President, Hal Trejo, shared their excitement for the future of the program: “I’m so grateful to be able to provide these services in my hometown. In just the short time we’ve been operating, we’ve already made such a difference for those in the program–I’m excited to see the program grow in 2025 and support even more amazing young adults.”
ARAY’s mission is to create a place of support and provide information, advocacy, and resources in Charlotte County, Florida, for LGBTQ+ youth of all races, nationalities, and incomes. Find out more about their work at: https://www.allrainbowandalliedyouth.org/
