Story
Words alone cannot express the profound impact my team has on the wellbeing of 2SLGBTQ youth. Supporting Our Youth team members are committed to supporting youth in every aspect of their lives. For youth who experience homelessness or are underhoused, we help them transition into safe, sustainable housing. For youth who are new to Canada, we help them adjust and access newcomer supports and resources. For all our youth, SOY provides them with a safe space to explore gender identity and sexual orientation, helping them find community, learn skills, and build confidence. All this gives our youth—particularly our community members who are Black, Indigenous, and people of colour—the ability to thrive and persist in living authentic lives, in the face of a society where homophobia, transphobia, racism, and discrimination are unfortunately still common.
Every year, SOY works tirelessly to support 200 2SLGBTQ youth on a small budget.
For the first time in my non-profit sector career, I feel compelled to reach out and personally fundraise. Joining SOY has been a privilege and opportunity for me to support the most underserved youth living in the city of Toronto. Losing our drop-ins would severely impact them.
Every dollar we raise with Bowlathon will allow us to continue providing support and helps stabilize a 2SLGBTQ youth’s life. Please consider giving to SOY.
SOY is an innovative and award-winning program that supports the health and well-being goals of 2SLGBTQ youth and young adults. On the afternoon of Saturday October 22, donors, businesses, community partners, volunteers, and allies will come together to support and celebrate these 2SLGBTQ youth. Support has never been more crucial than during these past years, which saw these youth experiencing greater social isolation and anxiety, food insecurity, and job loss brought on by the pandemic. Please consider joining us and donating to SOY's annual fundraiser, and know that your gift will have a direct impact on 2SLGBTQ youth in our community."...as a queer and trans teenager on the run from an abusive and transphobic home environment, attending the SOY program when I got into Toronto helped me find community and support. I was able to access health care services, get fed regularly, and learn about issues relevant to the LGBTQ+ community. (SOY client)