[NEW YORK] – Senator John Kerry (D-Mass.) today introduced The Reconnecting Youth to Prevent Homelessness Act, a bill that aims to reduce the number of homeless youth. The legislation includes an important provision that provides support for programs that improve family relationships and reduce homelessness among youth who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender.
“I applaud Senator Kerry for introducing such a crucial piece of legislation and for ensuring that the needs of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender youth are included in the bill,” said Cyndi Lauper, True Colors Fund co-founder. “As a mother, I am deeply saddened and angered by the epidemic of young people who are being thrown out of there homes by their parents or runaway out of fear and despair simply because of their sexual orientation or gender identity and expression. As parents we need to be there for our children when they are struggling to come to terms with who they are, if passed this bill will provide much needed support for families to do just that.”
It is currently estimated that 20% to 40% of all homeless youth identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender, yet make up 3% to 5% of the general youth population. Helping to foster accepting environments at home is a vital piece of the puzzle in helping to bring an end to gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender youth experiencing homelessness.
ABOUT THE TRUE COLORS FUND
The True Colors Fund was co-founded by Cyndi Lauper to inspire and engage everyone, especially straight people, to become active participants in the advancement of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender equality and to raise awareness about and bring an end to gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender youth homelessness.