What does it mean to host?

Host homes are a community-based response to the crisis of LGBTQ youth homelessness. The program will place youth experiencing homelessness with vetted and caring adults - the hosts - who welcome the youth into their homes and provide shelter, food and mentorship for 3-6 months. The goal of the program is to not only provide a safe and stable living environment for youth experiencing homelessness, but also to facilitate meaningful connections between youth and hosts, enriching the lives of both the youth and the hosts.

You can help end youth homelessness.

All you need is a spare bedroom and a willingness to open your home to a young person in need. The Homeward staff will work to foster positive and meaningful relationships by matching hosts and youth based on shared values, interests, and lifestyles.

Don’t worry - you won’t be alone. Homeward will provide both hosts and youth with continuous ongoing support in the form of extensive training, regular staff check-ins, conflict mitigation, a host support group, and stipends based on need and availability.

How to become a Host

Hosts must go through the standard volunteer onboarding process, including orientation and a background screening, and must be willing to participate in an additional 1 day training. Hosts and guests will have ongoing support from the Host Homes Coordinator and will meet each other to discuss expectations and hopes for the program, before any host agreements are signed.

If you’re interested in learning more, please email Brendan Taliaferro at brendan@homewardinitiative.org or click the link below.