Due to the high percentage of homeless youth that identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender, allies from PMHS’ Gender and Sexuality Alliance (GSA) held a fundraiser from November 13-16 in front of the auditorium to raise money for the Ali Forney Center, a youth center that focuses on giving homeless LGBT+ teens the tools and resources they need to live independently. The GSA handed out free candy and pride flag ribbons, and asked students to donate whatever they could in return.

“There’s a huge homelessness crisis facing LGBT+ youth, and as a club based around supporting LGBT+ youth, it’s important for us to put our words into actions,” club secretary Emilie Kelly said.

LGBT+ community teens and young adults are 120 percent more likely to experience homelessness. .

“People can donate directly to the center if they didn’t get a chance to donate during our fundraiser. The center is accepting both monetary and clothing donations. They also have an Amazon wish list on their website!” GSA co-president Siobhan Joyce-Farley said.

If you are interested in making a donation, please go to their website: https://www.aliforneycenter.org/about-us/contact-us/donations/