Living
Combatting scourge of LGBTQ youth homelessness in D.C.
There are many local resources available to help
LGBTQ youth homelessness is a significant problem across the United States, but it is particularly acute in Washington, D.C. According to government statistics, a significant percentage of homeless youth in the country identify as LGBTQ. These vulnerable individuals face unique challenges due to their sexual orientation or gender identity, which often leads to estrangement from their families and communities.
In the lively, flashy streets of our hometown, Washington, D.C., and amid the city’s well-heeled new complexes like the D.C. Wharf in Southeast and City Centre Downtown, an alarming number of our youth find themselves without a place to call home, facing discrimination, abandonment, and societal neglect.
According to a 2022 article in DCist, “Queer and transgender youth are vastly overrepresented in the unhoused population. Nationally, 7% of people between the ages of 13 and 25 years old identify as LGBTQ+, while 40% of unhoused people of those same ages do. D.C.’s most recent Youth Count, which surveys the number of youth experiencing homelessness and housing instability, reports that the same is true in the District, with 40% of youth experiencing homelessness identifying as LGBTQ.”
Helping our youth may require more than just a simple annual or monthly donation. When you consider what you can do to help the District’s LGBTQ youth, you will want to do your homework to make sure the services you believe you are contributing to are reaching the youth in need. Below, you’ll find a few key elements to know to be informed and a few actions you can take to make a meaningful difference.
Discrimination isn’t the only cause of LGBTQ youth homelessness in our area. Several factors contribute to the high rates in Washington, D.C. One primary cause is family rejection, as many young individuals are forced out of their homes when they come out as LGBTQ.
Some families struggle to accept their child’s sexual identity or gender expression, leading to emotional or even sometimes physical abuse.
Discrimination in housing and employment also can play a significant role, making it difficult for LGBTQ youth to secure stable housing or find sustainable employment opportunities.
Additionally, the intersectionality of LGBTQ identities with race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status may tend to exacerbate the issue.
LGBTQ youth from marginalized communities — African American and individuals of Latin American descent — are disproportionately affected by homelessness due to familial expectations and social stigma within ethnic or racial communities.
Homeless LGBTQ youth in Washington, D.C., confront numerous challenges that hinder their ability to thrive. These challenges include a lack of access to safe and affordable housing, limited educational opportunities, higher rates of substance abuse, mental health issues, and an increased risk of experiencing violence on the streets, or even exploitation.
Importance of support and resources
Addressing the scourge of homelessness for our youth requires a multi-faceted approach involving the government, community organizations, and individuals like you. The provision of safe and inclusive shelters is crucial, offering a supportive environment where young LGBTQ individuals can find refuge without fear of discrimination or harassment.
Moreover, comprehensive support systems must be established to address the unique needs of LGBTQ homeless youth. This includes mental health services, educational support, job training, and access to healthcare. Collaborative efforts between local organizations, policymakers, and the community can ensure that these individuals receive the care, resources, and opportunities they need to rebuild their lives.
Advocacy and policy changes
Advocacy plays a vital role in raising awareness and pushing for policy changes to combat LGBTQ youth homelessness in Washington, D.C. Organizations dedicated to LGBTQ rights and homelessness prevention actively work to promote inclusive policies, advocate for increased funding for support programs, and provide training to service providers to ensure they are equipped to address the specific needs of this vulnerable population.
LGBTQ youth homelessness in D.C. is an ongoing crisis that demands attention and action from individuals, organizations, and policymakers alike. Here are a few things you can do to help:
• Use Your Voice. Establish an ongoing voice in your ANC or your Ward on these matters. Reach out to your ANC commissioner if you feel your ANC can help. Start an ongoing conversation with the Constituent Services employees in your Ward member’s office and those offices of the At-Large Councilmembers. And reach out to the Mayor’s office when you have information that can help.
• Volunteer and Contribute. Volunteer your time and (when possible) financial support to organizations in the District that are making an on-the-ground difference. Volunteering can provide you a starting point to learn how the organization you seek to support operates and to see how efficient and effective they are internally at providing direct services to our youth.
• Know Your Partners. SMYAL does yeoman’s work working to establish healthy relationships with community organizations nationwide helping homeless LGBTQ+ youth. Learn about their work and see where supporting them makes sense for you. SMYAL does a lot to help housing providers exercise cultural competencies to address the needs of those homeless youth from our community. And SMYAL is just one group helping. Learn who your partners are.
So while significant progress has been made, there is still more work to be done to fully address the issue of LGBTQ youth homelessness in D.C. and nationwide. Ongoing advocacy, funding, and community involvement can be your leverage to help create sustainable solutions and ensure that all LGBTQ youth have access to safe housing, supportive services, and a chance to thrive in our great city.
Join CPM in contributing to local and national organizations focused specifically on LGBTQ+ youth homelessness such as the True Colors Foundation and SMYAL. Even the Salvation Army has a special program designed to reach our youth.
Resources and partners
True Colors Foundation. ”True Colors United,” founded by Cyndi Lauper and its executive director, Gregory Lewis focuses on addressing homelessness among LGBTQ youth. True Colors United works to raise awareness, provide resources, and support initiatives that aim to end homelessness among this population.
They collaborate with various stakeholders, including individuals, communities, government agencies, and service providers, to develop innovative solutions and implement policies that can effectively address the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ homeless youth. True Colors United also provides training and technical assistance to service providers, helping them create safe and inclusive environments for LGBTQ youth experiencing homelessness.
The Salvation Army. In the past, some LGBTQ activists and organizations have criticized the Salvation Army for discriminatory practices, specifically related to its treatment of LGBTQ individuals. Concerns have been raised about the organization’s position on same-sex relationships and its history of lobbying against LGBTQ rights.
It’s important to note that the Salvation Army is a decentralized organization, and its policies and practices may vary across different regions and locations. Some individual Salvation Army centers and programs may have taken steps to be more inclusive and supportive of LGBTQ individuals.
In recent years, the Salvation Army has made efforts to address concerns and improve its relationship with the LGBTQ community. They have stated that their services are available to all people, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.
SMYAL. SMYAL (Supporting and Mentoring Youth Advocates and Leaders) is an organization based in D.C. that focuses on supporting and empowering LGBTQ youth. While SMYAL primarily focuses on providing a range of services to LGBTQ youth, including support groups, counseling, leadership development, and advocacy, they also address LGBTQ youth homelessness.
SMYAL acknowledges that LGBTQ youth are disproportionately affected by homelessness due to various factors, including family rejection, discrimination, and lack of supportive resources. To address this issue, SMYAL offers specific programs and initiatives:
Housing Support: SMYAL provides assistance and support to LGBTQ youth who are experiencing homelessness or housing instability. They work with local partners to help youth find safe and affirming housing options, navigate the housing system, and access necessary resources.
Emergency Housing: SMYAL operates an emergency housing program known as the SMYAL House. This residential program provides temporary shelter and support services for LGBTQ youth experiencing homelessness. The program aims to create a safe and inclusive environment where youth can access resources, receive counseling, and work toward securing stable housing.
Outreach and Education: SMYAL engages in community outreach and education efforts to raise awareness about LGBTQ youth homelessness. They work to educate the public, service providers, and policymakers about the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ youth and advocate for policies and practices that ensure their safety and well-being.
Supportive Services: SMYAL offers a range of supportive services to LGBTQ youth, including case management, mental health counseling, employment assistance, and educational support. These services aim to address the underlying issues that contribute to youth homelessness and help young people build resilience and self-sufficiency.
Wanda Alston Foundation. The Wanda Alston Foundation is dedicated to ensuring that LGBTQ youth have access to services that improve their overall quality of life. Donations naturally continue their work to change the lives of LGBTQ homeless and at-risk youth for the better. Remote volunteer opportunities are available until we resume in-person volunteering. Current volunteer projects include: Social media management, website management, fundraising, policy review and development, and communications. Check out their website for ways to get involved.
Scott Bloom is senior property manager and owner, Columbia Property Management.
Real Estate
2026: prices, pace, and winter weather
Lingering snow cover, sub-freezing temperatures have impacted area housing market
The D.C. metropolitan area’s housing market remains both pricey and complex. Buyers and sellers are navigating not only high costs and shifting buyer preferences, but also seasonal weather conditions that influence construction, inventory, showings, and marketing time.
Seasonality has long affected the housing market across the U.S. Activity typically peaks in spring and summer and dips in winter; however, January and February 2026 brought unusually cold spells to our area, with extended freezing conditions.
Persistent snow and ice-covered roads and sidewalks have gone for days, and in some cases weeks, before melting. While snow accumulation normally averages only a few inches this time of year, this winter saw below-normal temperatures and lingering snow cover that has significantly disrupted normal activity.
Rather than relying on neighborhood teenagers to shovel snow to make some extra money, the “snowcrete” has required ice picks, Bobcats, and snow removal professionals to clear streets and alleys, free our cars from their parking spaces, and restore availability of mass transit.
These winter conditions have had an adverse impact on the regional housing market in several ways.
- Construction slowdown: New builds and exterior improvements often pause during extended cold, resulting in delayed housing starts when we need affordable housing in the worst way.
- Listing preparation: Cleaning crews, sign installers, photographers, and stagers with trucks full of furniture may be unable to navigate roads and need to postpone service.
- Showings and open houses: Simply put, buyers are less inclined to schedule visits in hazardous conditions. Sellers must ensure walkways and parking areas are clear and de-iced and be able to vacate the property while viewings are taking place.
- Inspection and appraisal delays: Like buyers and sellers, ancillary professionals may be delayed by unfavorable weather, slowing timelines from contract to close.
- Maintenance and repairs: Properties with winter damage (e.g., ice dams or frozen pipes) may experience repair delays due to contractor availability and supply chain schedules. Snow and cold can also affect properties with older and more delicate systems adversely, leading some sellers to delay listing until better conditions arrive.
- Availability of labor: Increasingly, construction, landscaping, and domestic workers are reluctant to come into the District, not because of ice, but because of ICE.
Overall, the District has shown a notable increase in days on the market compared with past years. Homes that once sold in a week or less are now often listed for 30+ days before obtaining an offer, especially in the condominium and mid-range house segments. While part of this shift can be attributed to weather and climate, interest rates, uncertain employment, temporary furloughs, and general economic conditions play key roles.
Nonetheless, we continue to host some of the region’s most expensive residences. Historic estates, including a Georgetown mansion that sold for around $28 million, anchor the luxury segment and reflect ongoing demand for premium urban property.
But even in this high-end housing sector, marketing strategies are evolving based on seasonal realities. Price reductions on unique or niche properties, such as undersized or unconventional homes, reflect a broader market adjustment where competitive pricing can shorten selling time.
For example, a beautifully renovated, 4-story brick home with garage parking and multiple decks that overlook the Georgetown waterfront sold in early February for 90 percent of the list price after 50 days on the market.
At the other end of the spectrum, a 2-bedroom investor-special rowhouse in Anacostia only took eight days to sell for under $200,000, down 14 percent from its original list price. In addition, four D.C. homes took more than 250 days to sell, including an 8-bedroom rooming house that was on the market for 688 days and closed after a 23 percent downward price adjustment.
Some frustrated sellers are simply taking their homes off the market rather than dropping prices below their mortgage balances, although we are beginning to see the resurgence of short sales for those who must sell.
Condominiums and cooperatives offer many opportunities for buyers and investors, with 1,100 of them currently on the market in D.C. alone. List prices run the gamut from $55,000 for a studio along the Southwest Waterfront to nearly $5 million for five bedrooms, four full baths, and 4,400 square feet at the Watergate.
So, while Washington metro area prices remain high, the pace of sales now reflects both seasonal and economic realities. Homes taking longer to sell, in part caused by elements of winter, signal a shifting market where buyers can take more time to decide which home to choose and have a better negotiating posture than in recent years.
Accordingly, sellers must continue to price strategically, primp and polish their homes, and prepare for additional adverse circumstances by reviewing fluctuating market conditions with their REALTOR® of choice.
Valerie M. Blake is a licensed Associate Broker in DC, MD & VA with RLAH @properties. Call or text her at (202) 246-8602, email her at [email protected] or follow her on Facebook at TheRealst8ofAffairs.
Autos
Going for gold: Ford Bronco Sport vs. Toyota RAV4
SUV world has share of bright lights, bold entrances, cut-throat competitors
Let the games begin! Just like the Winter Olympics this month, the SUV world has its share of bright lights, bold entrances, and cut-throat competitors.
Enter the Ford Bronco Sport and Toyota RAV4, both ready to claim the podium but each with a different routine. Think hiking boots versus minimalist trainers. Dirt trails versus perfectly paved roadways.
FORD BRONCO SPORT
$34,000
MPG: 25 city/30 highway
0 to 60 mph: 8.2 seconds
Cargo space: 32.5 cu. ft.
PROS: Boxy chic. Off-road ready. Easy-clean interior.
CONS: Meh gas mileage. Firm ride. Outside noise.
The Bronco Sport doesn’t try to blend in — and that’s the point. With an upright stance, squared lines and retro-rugged styling, this compact SUV looks ready for a backcountry photoshoot before you’ve even left the driveway.
Power comes from a three-cylinder turbo engine that handles daily driving with ease. Opt for the four-cylinder turbo, and the personality shifts from relaxed to assertive. Passing power improves. Highway merges are confident rather than cautious.
The standard 4×4 system sets the tone immediately. Traction is constant. Confidence is built in. Add the G.O.A.T. drive trains (in Ford cute-speak, this means “Goes Over Any Terrain”), and the Bronco Sport adapts to mud, sand, snow and rocks like a decathlete moving between events. Higher trims add skid plates, upgraded suspension and special hardware that makes rough territory feel less intimidating.
On pavement, the Bronco Sport is stable and composed, though the firm suspension can be ass-busting over deep potholes and such. And wind noise at highway speeds is kinda annoying, a tradeoff for the boxy profile.
Inside, durability meets thoughtful design. Rubberized surfaces and easy-clean materials welcome muddy boots, sandy paws or ambitious weekend projects. The cargo area features a flip-up rear window and adjustable floor, making it a breeze to load gear. Storage cubbies and nylon straps keep equipment organized without fuss.
Safety and other tech amenities are modern and practical. Wireless smartphone integration, cameras and driver-assistance gizmos such as adaptive cruise control make daily driving and long trips easier to manage.
What truly sets this SUV apart? In a sea of aerodynamic lemmings, the Bronco Sport feels like a free spirit. Rugged. Confident. A little rebellious.
And, like alpine skier Breezy Johnson, it looks particularly good with a bit of trail dust.
TOYOTA RAV4
$34,000
MPG: 47 city/40 highway
0 to 60 mph: 7.1 seconds
Cargo space: 37.8 cu. ft.
PROS: Fuel savvy. Spacious. Tech-laden features.
CONS: Less-sporty ride. Blasé base trim. Pricey options.
If the Bronco Sport is the adventurous wanderer, the Toyota RAV4 is the precision athlete who arrives early, stretches properly and performs effortlessly. Cue figure skaters Amber Glenn or Paul Poirier and you get the picture.
Fully redesigned for 2026, this compact SUV retains a formula that has made it one of the best-selling vehicles in America, blending efficiency, versatility and lots of tech features.
Toyota nixed the traditional gas engine for the RAV4, but that’s just fine. All models are now either standard hybrids, with fuel economy in the mid-40 mpg range, or plug-in hybrids, which can go up to 50 miles on battery power alone. The result: Vehicles that can handle daily commutes in near silence while retaining long-distance flexibility that would make an Olympic coach proud.
Acceleration is smooth and responsive, particularly in the plug-in hybrid, which is surprisingly quick. The transition between electric and gas power is seamless, though heavy throttle inputs mean the engine sometimes sounds strained. Handling is more predictable than sporty, so this was a minor deduction on the RAV4’s scorecard … at least from me.
But overall comfort is outstanding. The suspension absorbs potholes and uneven pavement with ease, and cabin noise remains impressively low at highway speeds. Long road trips feel relaxed rather than fatiguing — less triathlon grind, more victory lap.
Toyota’s Safety Sense offers adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, enhanced collision avoidance and other systems that operate smoothly without seeming intrusive.
Inside, the revamped cabin is user-friendly. Materials are more refined than before, especially in mid- and upper-level trims. A large, high-resolution touchscreen supports the latest apps, voice commands and over-the-air updates. Such a layout is intuitive instead of flashy — stylish athleisure rather than couture.
Passenger space is generous, and cargo capacity remains among the most practical in this segment. The wide opening is especially helpful when tossing in luggage, sports equipment or an overly optimistic warehouse haul.
For drivers like me who are quick to judge efficiency, reliability and daily usability, the RAV4 delivered a gold-medal performance.
Valentine’s Day is often portrayed as a celebration of romantic love — flowers, chocolates, and candlelit dinners. But for many LGBTQ+ individuals and couples, Valentine’s Day can also be a moment to reflect on something deeper: the love that creates a safe, welcoming home.
For LGBTQ+ home buyers and sellers, homeownership is more than a financial milestone—it is an act of belonging, resilience, and pride. Owning a home can mean finally having a place where you can hold hands with your partner on the front porch, decorate with your authentic style, and build a life free from judgment. In this way, buying or selling a home is one of the most meaningful love stories many LGBTQ+ people will ever write.
This Valentine’s Day, whether you’re a first-time gay home buyer, a same-sex couple upgrading your space, or an LGBTQ+ seller moving on to your next chapter, it’s worth thinking about how love, identity, and real estate intersect—and how to navigate that journey with confidence, protection, and the right support.
Love, Identity, and the Meaning of ‘Home’
For generations, LGBTQ+ people were denied equal access to housing, homeownership, and legal protections. Even today, many LGBTQ+ home buyers still face subtle bias, uncomfortable interactions, or outright discrimination in the real estate process.
That’s why finding LGBTQ+ friendly real estate and an affirming gay friendly realtor or lesbian realtor matters so much. A home isn’t just a building—it’s a personal sanctuary. Working with LGBTQ+ real estate agents who understand your lived experience can make all the difference between a stressful transaction and a joyful one.
For over 30 years, GayRealEstate.com has been the leading gay real estate network, connecting LGBTQ+ home buyers and sellers with gay real estate agents, lesbian real estate agents, and LGBTQ+ friendly realtors who truly “get it.” Their mission has always been simple yet powerful: to ensure that every LGBTQ+ person has access to safe, respectful, and inclusive real estate services.
Finding Your Match: Choosing the Right LGBTQ+ Friendly Realtor
Much like dating, finding the right real estate agent is about compatibility, trust, and communication. Here are some key tips for choosing the best LGBTQ+ real estate representation:
- Look for experience with LGBTQ+ clients. Search for a gay realtor near me or lesbian realtor near me through GayRealEstate.com, where agents are vetted for cultural competency and community commitment.
- Ask about their experience with same-sex couple home buying. A strong agent should understand issues like joint ownership, legal protections, and financing considerations.
- Choose someone who listens. You should feel safe sharing your priorities—whether that includes proximity to LGBTQ+ nightlife, affirming schools, or lesbian-friendly neighborhoods.
- Prioritize respect and transparency. Your agent should advocate for you, not just push a quick sale.
The right gay friendly real estate agent isn’t just helping you buy a house—they’re helping you find a place to build your life.
Best Cities for LGBTQ+ Home Buyers
If love is your compass, location is your map. Some of the best cities for LGBTQ+ home buyers consistently offer strong community presence, legal protections, and welcoming neighborhoods:
- Wilton Manors, Florida – A hub for LGBTQ+ culture with thriving LGBTQ+ real estate opportunities
- Palm Springs, California – A long-standing LGBTQ+ retirement and second-home destination
- Provincetown, Massachusetts – Historic LGBTQ+ community with progressive housing protections
- Asheville, North Carolina – Growing market with inclusive real estate services
- Fort Lauderdale, Florida – Diverse, welcoming, and highly sought-after for LGBTQ+ home ownership
Working with GayRealEstate.com allows you to connect with local LGBTQ+ real estate experts who know these markets inside and out.
Navigating Legal Protections in LGBTQ+ Real Estate
Love is universal—but legal protections are not always consistent. Understanding your rights is essential when buying or selling a home as an LGBTQ+ person.
Key protections include:
- Fair Housing Act (FHA): Prohibits discrimination based on sex, which courts have increasingly interpreted to include sexual orientation and gender identity.
- State and local protections: Many cities and states offer additional safeguards against LGBTQ+ housing discrimination.
- Same-sex couple legal considerations: If you are married, joint ownership is typically straightforward. If not, consult an attorney about co-ownership agreements.
A knowledgeable LGBTQ+ friendly realtor from GayRealEstate.com can help guide you through these complexities and connect you with trusted legal professionals when needed.
Buying a Home as an LGBTQ+ Person: Practical Tips
If you’re embarking on your home-buying journey this Valentine’s season, here are smart, practical steps to take:
- Clarify your priorities. Do you want a vibrant LGBTQ+ neighborhood, quiet suburbs, or access to queer community spaces?
- Get pre-approved for a mortgage. This strengthens your position in competitive markets.
- Work with an LGBTQ+ real estate agent. Searching “finding a gay real estate agent” or “finding a lesbian real estate agent” through GayRealEstate.com is a great first step.
- Research inclusive communities. Some neighborhoods are more welcoming than others.
- Know your rights. If you experience bias, document it and seek legal guidance.
Buying a home is an act of self-love—and community love.
Selling a Home as an LGBTQ+ Person
Selling can be just as emotional as buying, especially if your home represents years of memories with your partner, friends, or chosen family.
When selling a home as an LGBTQ+ person, consider:
- Working with a gay friendly realtor who will market your home inclusively
- Highlighting LGBTQ+ community appeal in listings
- Being prepared for potential buyer bias (and knowing how to respond)
- Leaning on GayRealEstate.com’s LGBTQ+ real estate services for trusted guidance
Your story—and your home—deserve respect.
Real Estate for LGBTQ+ Families
More LGBTQ+ couples are raising children, fostering, or building blended families. This makes homeownership even more meaningful.
When searching for real estate for LGBTQ+ families, consider:
- LGBTQ+ affirming school districts
- Family-friendly queer communities
- Safe neighborhoods with inclusive values
- Access to LGBTQ+ resources and social networks
GayRealEstate.com specializes in helping LGBTQ+ families find homes that truly fit their lives.
Love, Pride, and Homeownership
At its core, Valentine’s Day is about connection. For LGBTQ+ people, homeownership can be one of the most profound expressions of love—love for yourself, your partner, your family, and your future.
Whether you are a first-time gay home buyer, a same-sex couple relocating, or an LGBTQ+ seller moving forward, you deserve an experience rooted in dignity, fairness, and celebration.
For over three decades, GayRealEstate.com has stood as the leading source for LGBTQ+ real estate, gay real estate, lesbian real estate, and LGBTQ+ home buying and selling representation. Their nationwide network of gay real estate agents, lesbian-friendly real estate agents, and LGBTQ+ friendly realtors ensures that your real estate journey is guided by professionals who understand your heart—and your home.
This Valentine’s Day, let your next chapter be written in a place where you can truly belong. Because when love leads the way, home is never far behind.
Scott Helms is president and owner of Gayrealestate.com.
PHOTOS: Queen of Hearts
New book profiles LGBTQ Ukrainians, documents war experiences
More than a dozen LGBTQ athletes medal at Olympics
Rob Jetten becomes first gay Dutch prime minister
US Embassy in Mexico issues shelter in place order for Puerto Vallarta
Judge rescinds order against activist in Capital Pride lawsuit
Trans activists arrested outside HHS headquarters in D.C.
How do we honor Renee Good, Alex Pretti?
US wins Olympic gold medal in women’s hockey
Calendar: February 20-26
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District of Columbia4 days agoJudge rescinds order against activist in Capital Pride lawsuit
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District of Columbia4 days ago
Trans activists arrested outside HHS headquarters in D.C.
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Opinions4 days ago
How do we honor Renee Good, Alex Pretti?
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Sports5 days ago
US wins Olympic gold medal in women’s hockey
