A growing number of gender-nonconforming and transgender people are experiencing homelessness in the U.S., a trend that seems baffling because public polling indicates LGBTQ+ individuals are more socially accepted than ever before. 

Over the last three years, federal data shows the number of gender-nonconforming and transgender people experiencing homelessness has grown from roughly 4,500 to more than 7,800. These individuals are more than twice as likely to experience unsheltered homelessness compared to cisgender youths.

Transgender and gender-nonconforming individuals experiencing homelessness also face greater health challenges than their sheltered counterparts. For instance, 38% of transgender and gender-nonconforming respondents to the most recent VI-SPDAT survey said they have a chronic health issue compared to just 3% of sheltered respondents. This underscores the importance of providing support and understanding to these individuals, who are some of the most vulnerable experiencing homelessness.

These individuals are also more likely to be victimized than other people experiencing homelessness. Last year, the Human Rights Campaign found at least 32 transgender people were killed, 80% of whom were people of color.

“Living on the streets and being forced to engage in risky survival behaviors elevates the risk of violence and victimization among this extraordinarily vulnerable group,” the National Alliance to End Homelessness said in a policy brief.

While transgender and gender-nonconforming individuals experiencing homelessness are often lumped together with cisgender individuals by service providers, this population faces unique challenges that need to be addressed. This article provides a basic framework for how gender identity and homelessness are connected.

Discrimination and Social Stigma Worsen Homelessness for Transgender People

One of the leading causes of homelessness for transgender and gender-nonconforming individuals is discrimination. This is true for both youths and adults.

According to the National Coalition for the Homeless, about 26% of LGBTQ+ youths report being forced out of their home because of their gender identity or sexual orientation. A number of these individuals also report facing discrimination from faith-based service organizations and shelters.

Read the full article about homelessness for transgender people by Robert Davis at Invisible People.