From the Advocate.com:
A church-turned-shelter for homeless youth in Queens, New York is a far cry from sleeping on the streets after a $200,000 renovation and a partnership with the Ali Forney Center for LGBT youth.
A converted church in Queens, N.Y., may look like a pleasant youth hostel, but many of its residents made a tough journey to find this new place to call home.
The Ali Forney Center, New York City's top service organization for homeless youth, found a partner in the local Episcopal diocese, which also took interest in the hardships that many LGBT homeless youths face. The partnership resulted in a $200,000 renovation of St. Andrew's Church in the Astoria neighborhood of Queens, where 16 young people can now sleep soundly.
May God bless all involved in this effort. Young gay teens are too often driven from their homes by their own families when their sexual orientation becomes known. Unfortunately, once the teens are on the street, a good many turn to drugs and prostitution. Places like the Ali Forney Center offer the youngsters an opportunity to chart a new course in a place where they are accepted and affirmed.
Thanks to John for the link.
That IS good news.
ReplyDeleteGreat to hear such good news on a weekend that is centered on giving thanks!
ReplyDeletePrayers that they may be safe there and not become victims of targeted hatred and violence.
ReplyDeletePrayers for the center and all involved.
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