Empowering 2SLGBTQI+ Youth on the Housing Journey

2SLGBTQI+ individuals – especially youth – often struggle to find safe, stable and long-term housing due to discrimination, stigma and a lack of tailored housing options. This project aimed to address this issue by researching the barriers and facilitators of accessing stable housing for 2SLGBTQI+ youth.

Download The Report (PDF)

Project scope and expected outcomes

Filling the knowledge gaps

This project addressed the lack of research on 2SLGBTQI+ youth homelessness in Canada, where 40% of homeless youth belong to this community. The project was a collaborative effort between several organizations to identify the barriers and facilitators of safe, stable long-term housing for these youth.

The research revealed that 2SLGBTQI+ youth often make trade-offs between housing and basic needs. Specific needs include exploring their identity, autonomy, physical and emotional safety and stability.

A community-centric approach

The project prioritized community involvement and values, ensuring the inclusion of 2SLGBTQI+ youth and service providers in the research process. It aimed to reflect the diversity of sexual orientations, gender identities and demographic characteristics within the community.

Project Phases

The research was divided into 3 phases, with each building on the previous:

• Phase 1: Examination of existing research and data on youth housing. See the final report from Phase 1.
• Phase 2: Collection of qualitative data through interviews and journey mapping to identify gaps in programs and services. Read the Phase 2 report.
• Phase 3: Synthesis of findings to improve stakeholder capacity in tailoring service delivery to 2SLGBTQI+ youth. Visit this project’s webpage.

Redesigning the housing continuum

The project addressed housing and the broader health, education, employment and social needs of 2SLGBTQI+ youth. This approach aimed to foster cross-sector collaboration and ultimately improve access to stable, safe and long-term housing.

Based on their unique experiences, youth participants redesigned the housing continuum to better suit 2SLGBTQI+ youth. This model differs from traditional government agency models.

Recommendations for action

The youth participants, along with service providers, recommended:

• Training and Capacity-Building: Providing education and training for service providers, landlords and others about human rights, legal obligations and best practices.
• Expanding Support: Expanding targeted supports for 2SLGBTQI+ youth.
• Policy Changes: Pursuing policy changes related to income supports and affordable housing.

Implementing the research

In the housing sector, it's crucial to ensure inclusivity and safety for 2SLGBTQI+ youth. All services, supports and programs should adhere to equity and anti-oppression best practices. Training should be inclusive of these youth.

Federal housing policy should recognize 2SLGBTQI+ youth as a distinct and priority population.

They should receive direct and targeted income assistance at key points in their housing journeys. By taking these actions, we can better support and affirm 2SLGBTQI+ youth regardless of where they live.

Download The Report (PDF)