WASHINGTON– The Human Rights Campaign (HRC), is taking part in a national service partnership with organizations across 18 cities to serve LGBT homeless youth for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day of Service.
Officially recognized on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day (Jan. 20), MLK Day of Service is the only federal holiday observed as a national day of service – a “day on, not a day off.” Its purpose is to empower individuals and unite communities to address national challenges.
For MLK Day of Service, HRC is engaging its supporters and allies to address the challenge of LGBT youth homelessness. According to a study by the Williams Institute, The Palette Fund, and the True Colors Fund, LGBT youth make up to 40% of homeless and at-risk youth. Also, according to a study by Center for American Progress, LGBT youth are eight times more likely to commit suicide if rejected by family members.
“Dr. King said that ‘injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere,’ and we firmly believe that real progress must reach LGBT young people in cities big and small who disproportionately face harsh treatment, abuse, even homelessness,” said HRC National Field Director Marty Rouse. “MLK Day of Service is a day to make a difference in their lives, and it speaks to a year-round commitment to bring justice and equality to everyone, everywhere.”
With the support of its members and supporters, HRC is partnering with health & human service providers in 18 cities on a range of activities that will provide hundreds of volunteers with a meaningful service experience while addressing LGBT youth homelessness: from organizing donation drives of clothing and toiletries; to assembling care packages of travel-sized hygiene items, school supplies, and winter accessories; to minor renovation projects. Altogether, HRC is partnering with 23 health & human service providers across 18 cities.
MLK Day of Service in San Diego
Sunday, Jan. 19, HRC San Diego and San Diego Youth Services are partnering on a service activity for MLK Day of Service. Activities include and assembling donated toiletries, winter accessories, and other items into care bags for LGBT homeless youth.
Sunday, Jan. 19, 12-4 p.m. Hess Brewery, 3158 Grimm Street San Diego, CA 92104
