Make a Difference. Become a Host Homes Mentor.

We celebrated Pride Month this June and reflected on its history, the need for it, and how far we have come in the acceptance and celebration of LGBTQ folks. Unfortunately, Pride does not extend universally. Persistent hate and rejection have their most devastating effect on young people. Family rejection based on sexual orientation and gender identity can cause catastrophic consequences — including homelessness.

For young people who have been kicked out, rejected, bullied, and sometimes abused, there is a path to finding home. The Host Homes program provides temporary placement for young people experiencing homelessness, age 18–24, to stay with hosts for up to six months on the path to permanent housing.

The Host Homes program is based on an innovative twenty-year-old program started in the UK. LAHSA’s partners began to pilot the program in 2017 and have hosted 19 clients resulting in 19 permanent housing placements. Hosts provide a spare room, mentorship, and a sense of belonging that many of these young people have been denied. These placements result in a much-needed bridge from the street to permanent housing — and long-standing friendships as the clients find their footing.

Those interested in becoming hosts are screened, interviewed, and go through training. Hosts and clients are matched based on interests and needs. The host and client meet to decide whether it is a good fit. Clients live with hosts for up to six months as a case manager works closely with them through regular check-ins.

While the Host Homes program does not exclusively serve queer youth, they are the most frequent participants. According to a Williams Institute study, LGBTQ youth are overrepresented in the youth homeless population. They experience homelessness at higher rates, stay homeless longer, and are more susceptible to mental and physical health issues.

When the dorms shut down because of COVID-19, Nancy, a non-binary student at USC, was displaced from their student housing and turned to the Center for support. Nancy was matched with a couple, Mark and Jim, who lived in Porter Ranch. During their time in the program, Nancy pursued an internship at a prominent local non-profit while also maintaining a part-time job at a local call center. After a four-month stay in Host Homes, together with the support of our Host Home staff and the encouragement of their Hosts, Nancy successfully transitioned into their own permanent housing through Rapid Rehousing.

Four providers run Host Homes programs, and all need more Hosts to serve their clients. To find out more and to become a host, check out Safe Place For Youth, Jovenes Inc., Valley Oasis, and Los Angeles LGBT Center. You and your spare room can make all the difference for a young person who needs just a few months to make their way home.