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1/ #COVID19 has caused unprecedented disruption for college students across the U.S. Many colleges and universities are shutting down the campus completely -- asking students to leave and/or not return after spring break. https://www.nytimes.com/2020/03/11/us/colleges-cancel-classes-coronavirus.html
This decision to ask students to leave could be particularly disruptive for LGBTQ students -- who may lack family support or a home to return to.
LGBTQ youth are 120% more likely to experience homelessness than their straight & cisgender peers. https://www.hrc.org/blog/new-report-on-youth-homeless-affirms-that-lgbtq-youth-disproportionately-ex
LGBTQ youth are 120% more likely to experience homelessness than their straight & cisgender peers. https://www.hrc.org/blog/new-report-on-youth-homeless-affirms-that-lgbtq-youth-disproportionately-ex
. @HRC data shows that nearly half of all LGBTQ youth say their families make them feel bad for their sexual orientation or gender identity.
Some face mental and physical abuse at home, while others have been kicked out.
Some face mental and physical abuse at home, while others have been kicked out.
In light of these facts, @HRC would like to offer the following list of resources & ideas to support LGBTQ college & university students who may be facing homelessness or other difficult challenges during this time:
Several colleges are allowing exemptions on a case-by-case basis for students who are unable to go back home. LGBTQ students should engage their respective student affairs department about temporary housing during the #COVID19 crisis.
Local LGBTQ community centers can be a critical resource during this time.
Check-in with your local LGBTQ community center for resources and housing support. https://www.lgbtcenters.org/LGBTCenters
Check-in with your local LGBTQ community center for resources and housing support. https://www.lgbtcenters.org/LGBTCenters
. @HRC offers a variety of resources for LGBTQ young people who may be struggling with coming out or feeling affirmed in their homes or communities: https://www.hrc.org/resources/coming-out-resource-guides
During this difficult time, please remember that you are not alone. If you need help, make the call:
@TrevorProject -- (866) 488-7386
@glbtNatlHelpCtr --(800) 246-7743
@TransLifeline -- (877) 565-8860
@TrevorProject -- (866) 488-7386 @glbtNatlHelpCtr --(800) 246-7743 @TransLifeline -- (877) 565-8860
For those looking to help LGBTQ youth, consider how YOU can help in your own communities -- be it offering a spare bedroom through a local LGBTQ community center, or ordering lunch or food delivery for impacted students that you know.
To all the LGBTQ youth and people whose lives have been disrupted by this crisis -- know that you are seen, that you are loved, that you are valued. 
This is a time of crisis, but we will weather this crisis as we have weathered crises before -- by uniting as a community.
This is a time of crisis, but we will weather this crisis as we have weathered crises before -- by uniting as a community.
