The people working to support youth experiencing homelessness say there are very few permanent housing solutions for them in Nova Scotia. This is especially true when it comes to young people in the 2SLGBTQ+ community, who often face discrimination and rejection.When Rae Paul first started as housing co-ordinator with the Youth Project about a year ago, he had no clue how many people in the 2SLGBTQ+ community would need his help.
He works with young people in the 2SLGBTQ+ community between the ages of 16 and 30. He said many of his clients have been rejected or even thrown out by their families because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. Like Paul, Grant pointed to familial rejection and discrimination as key reasons these youth end up homeless.Coming out means going homeless for some LGBTQ youth in Nova Scotia
Otherwise, Doucette said finding stable, affordable, long-term housing for these youth is nearly impossible."I find myself staring at an abyss of no options," she said. "It hurts my heart. I feel helpless." Janel Comeau manages the shelter, and said 30 to 40 per cent of youth accessing its services are members of the queer community.She too sees 2SLGBTQ+ youth being rejected by their families and forced to leave their homes with nowhere to go.
They said shelters should only be a short-term solution until people can get connected with more permanent housing; however, Nova Scotians are relying on shelters more now than ever before.