...some transgender people are turned away from shelters, either because of ignorance or because a shelter does not think it can accommodate them. It is reported that some shelters in Atlanta have hung signs that say “No Transvestites."
It's going to be cold this winter......Won't you please help TransGender Michigan help the homeless transgender community?
Coalition of Organizations to Tackle Homelessness
On December 2, 2005, a coalition of local organizations launched a training program for staff of homeless shelters, which informed them about the unique needs of homeless transgender individuals.
A 2002 study by J. Risser and A. Shelton showed that 1 in 5 transgender people are in need or at risk of needing homeless shelter assistance.
The National Coalition for the Homeless and the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force state, “Transgender youth and adults, who identify as or express a gender that is different from their birth sex, can experience extreme difficulties in obtaining adequate and safe shelter.”
The training, called “Safe and Sound, Making Shelters Safe for Transgender and Gender Variant Individuals: A Training for Homeless Shelter Staff,” was held on December 2, 2005, on the campus of Wayne State University in Detroit.
The coalition of organizations spearheading the training includes Affirmations Lesbian and Gay Community Center, Green House Gender Dignity Project, Transgender Detroit, and TransGender Michigan.
About TransGender Michigan
TransGender Michigan is a non-profit organization in Michigan providing support and advocacy to the transgender community, as well as education about transgender identity to the community-at-large. TransGender Michigan’s mission states: “Because transgender individuals and significant others, families, friends, and allies (SOFFAs) face discrimination, violence, harassment, and inequality, TransGender Michigan aims to remedy these social injustices and create a better future for all.”
If you run a shelter, please fill out our survey form if you would like to offer shelter to transgender individuals. Thank you so much for your kindness.
Transitioning
Our Shelters
A GUIDE TO MAKING HOMELESS SHELTERS
SAFE FOR TRANSGENDER PEOPLE
Transgender Michigan
Homeless Services
Transgender Michigan is a 501(c)(3) Michigan nonprofit organization.
The services we provide would not be possible without the support of people like you.
