Rae Paul, a housing coordinator with the Youth Project in Halifax, has been working for a year to assist 2SLGBTQ+ youth facing homelessness. Over the past ten months, Paul has helped over 35 queer and transgender individuals, but only managed to secure stable housing for five or six. Many clients have been rejected or expelled by their families due to their sexual orientation or gender identity, leading to widespread transphobia and homophobia. This issue extends beyond Halifax, with 25-40% of homeless youth in Canada identifying as 2SLGBTQ+.
In Yarmouth, N.S., SHYFT House provides temporary housing for youth aged 16-24, with outreach worker Shanna Grant noting a high number of 2SLGBTQ+ youths facing similar issues. Rural communities, where “everybody knows everybody,” exacerbate discrimination. In Cape Breton, Madonna Doucette of the Youth Project struggles to find housing solutions, often referring youth to the always-full Abbey Ridge supportive living program, describing the situation as a “heartbreaking abyss of no options.”
In Halifax, Janel Comeau manages the Phoenix Youth Shelter, which is perpetually full, with 30-40% of its occupants identifying as queer. The shelter’s youth face additional challenges in securing employment, apartments, and roommates due to potential discrimination.
All four outreach workers agree on the urgent need for more affordable housing. Shelters, while vital, are a temporary solution. Phoenix Youth Shelter, for instance, grants an eight-week stay, but 60% of residents need extensions due to a lack of permanent housing options. Christina Deveau from the Department of Community Services acknowledged the need for continued support and encouraged organizations to engage with the department to address these issues.
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