Host Homes - Los Angeles LGBT Center

The Center’s Host Homes program provides supportive, short-term housing for youth ages 18 to 24 who are experiencing housing instability. With a focus on being inclusive and supportive of LGBTQ youth, the program serves as an intervention for young adults who are currently experiencing homelessness for a variety of reasons, including but not limited to family conflict, poverty, and detrimental issues related to their gender identities and sexual orientation.

By pairing youth ages 18 to 24 with community members who have extra space in their homes, youth obtain access to short-term shelter while building meaningful connections to caring adults.

Our goal is to match youth for stays of 3 to 6 months, as an interim step along their long-term housing plans. Hosts will work together with the youth and Center staff to collaboratively establish house rules and boundaries while setting up clear expectations for youth coming into the home. Hosts will be offered a voluntary stipend for their participation and youth will be given weekly case management support by our Host Homes Youth Care Specialist. Matches will be made based on shared interests and goals that will create the foundation for lasting, meaningful relationships.

For more information email [email protected].

As a host, you:

• Have an extra bedroom or private space in your home for a youth to reside (it’s okay to share bathrooms and common living areas)
• Commit to hosting a youth guest for at least 3 to 6 months
• Have verifiable renters/homeowner insurance
• Pass a Live Scan/background clearance check and home inspection interview
• Must be a Los Angeles County resident
• Provide a welcoming, safe, non-judgmental environment that supports the youths’ self-determined goals

As a youth, you:

• Are between 18 and 24 years old and interested in short-term, in-home shelter
• Actively engage in the Center’s Host Home onboarding procedures, including a background check and interview
• Are seeking or already have obtained employment or enrolled in furthering your education
• Conduct yourself respectfully and thoughtfully, and commit to communicating openly and often with your host and Center staff
• Are in good health and able to live independently
• Are focused on your forward movement and short/long term success and goals