Research shows that a disproportionate number of homeless youth in the United States identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender or queer, or LGBTQ.
[1][2][3][4] Researchers suggest that this is primarily a result of hostility or abuse from the young people's families leading to eviction or running away.
[5] In addition, LGBTQ youth are often at greater risk for certain dangers while homeless, including being the victims of crime,[6] risky sexual behavior,[7] substance use disorders,[8] and mental health concerns.
[2][3] Barriers to a more definitive percentage include the lack of a nationally representative study[12] and the possibility of underreporting due to stigma associated with identifying as LGBTQ.
A 1994 study on the New York City Child Welfare System reported that 78% of LGBTQ youth were kicked out or ran away from their foster home as a result.
[24] Many other factors that lead to increased risk of homelessness in adolescents disproportionately affect LGBT youth, such as experiencing conflict at school.
[9][17][27] In particular, in a 2012 study, legal expert Nusrat Ventimiglia noted that participation in the sex industry, homelessness, and lack of social support are particularly high among transgender women.
[28] A 2008 study that used interviews of homeless youth who use substances in the Southwestern United States determined a significant correlation between survival sex and HIV risk.
[17] In 2012, LGBTQ homeless youth experienced limited access to emergency housing options that affirm their sexual orientation and/or gender identity.
[35] In 2014, there were no federal programs or policies designed to specifically meet the needs of or protect LGBT homeless youth in the United States.
[37] Many individuals and organizations, including the Center for American Progress and the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force, advocate for change to institutional policies regarding homelessness among LGBT youth in the United States.
The goals and visions of these activists include: In 2014, there were less than a dozen nonprofit organizations in the nation that focused on providing LGBTQ homeless youth specialized services, and most of them are on the coasts.