JACKSONVILLE, Fla. —
Jacksonville’s Youth Crisis Center opened a new temporary emergency shelter for 18 to 24-year-olds who find themselves homeless.
It’s the first shelter of its kind in Northeast Florida and is open 24/7. The center took in its first client Tuesday.
Kim Sirdevan, the Youth Crisis Center’s president, said this shelter has gender-neutral rooms that help the transgender community. She told Action News Jax’s Robert Grant that a recent study in Florida shows 60% of the area’s homeless population who are 18 to 24 years old, also identify with the LGBTQ community, which is higher than the 40% seen across the rest of the state.
“This is a space that’s really not worried about their identity. It’s a space that we’re working with people,” Sirdevan said. “With how many young folks are on the streets and so vulnerable to this, we had a space and we found a need.”
Paige Mahogany Parks understands that statistic first hand. She had to leave her home after her mother found out she was transgender. She since started the Transgender Awareness Project, which helps those facing trouble find a place to stay.
“My mother found out I was transgender and it was a rocky road at home. I went to the streets,” she said. “I never want the youth to go through what I’ve been through.” The Transgender Project aims to help adults after 24 years old.
The Youth Crisis Center works directly with JASMYN, a local LGBTQ non-profit. They provide a place for young adults to go, but don’t have an overnight shelter. The organization went to the Youth Crisis Center three years ago to help find a solution. Now the House of Hope is open.
The Youth Crisis Center also said that the need is growing.
In January of 2019, there were 109 homeless individuals between the age of 18 and 24. In 2020, that number jumped to 118 in Duval County. YCC said it’s a trend that continues to increase.
Those in need of help can call the center’s 24-hour crisis hotline at 904-725-6662.
Cox Media Group
