anika.rak's blog

LGBTQ2S (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, transgender, queer,  questioning, two spirit) youth experiencing homelessness are in a particularly vulnerable state when it comes to managing their sexual and reproductive health. In addition to the obstacles they face as youth and individuals experiencing homelessness, they face discrimination as a sexual and gender minority. The risks associated with each of these factors interfere with their ability to maintain their sexual and reproductive health.

Traditionally, policy and programming targeting homelessness has been based on the perception that homelessness was largely an issue among older, single men. However, as the population of those experiencing homelessness diversifies, the development of policy and programming requires the consideration of needs specific to these distinct populations.