New York establishes pioneering homeless shelter catering specifically to transgender individuals.
Breaking News: New York City Opens First Shelter for Transgender and Gender-Nonconforming Homeless Individuals
New York City has taken a significant step forward in supporting its transgender community by opening Ace's Place, the first city-funded shelter of its kind in the United States. The shelter, named in honour of Sean Ebony Coleman's late mother, will provide a safe haven for 150 transgender New Yorkers who are currently homeless.
Coleman, the trans masculine founder and CEO of Destination Tomorrow, stated that the shelter's primary goal is to help transgender and gender nonconforming individuals feel valued and seen. By providing an environment that affirms their identities, the shelter aims to empower them to learn, grow, and thrive.
Coleman emphasized the importance of an affirming environment, highlighting that constant misgendering and denial of identity can hinder an individual's ability to learn and thrive. The shelter, located in Long Island City, will offer on-site psychiatric care, culinary classes, GED classes, job placement assistance, and job training to help residents re-enter society.
The city is required to provide a total of at least 30 beds to transgender and gender nonconforming people across the city. This requirement is part of a settlement reached with a transgender rights activist in 2021. The legal settlement was updated to include additional context, requiring the city to set aside beds for these individuals or create a separate shelter for them.
The Transgender Emergency Fund (TEF) operates the transgender shelter in New York City through the city administration. Coleman, who will manage the shelter for the city, described Ace's Place as an opportunity for transgender individuals to come home, be loved, and receive the support needed to re-enter society.
The opening of Ace's Place aligns with New York City's commitment to being a sanctuary city and a safe haven for the LGBTQ community. Nationally, nearly a third of transgender people have been homeless at some point in their lives, according to a study conducted by the National Center for Transgender Equality in 2022. By providing a dedicated shelter, New York City is setting an example for other cities to follow.
Coleman's personal connection to the cause is deeply rooted. His grandmother opened her home to his mother, who struggled with drug addiction. This experience has inspired Coleman to dedicate his life to helping those in need, particularly the transgender community.
The opening of Ace's Place is a significant milestone in the fight for transgender rights and a testament to New York City's commitment to its transgender residents. The shelter will not only provide a safe and affirming environment but also the tools and resources necessary for its residents to rebuild their lives and thrive.
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