Last week we introduced you to Road to Home, a documentary currently in production that will explore the crisis of youth homelessness in New York City. A staggering 40% of homeless youth identify as LGBT, despite the fact that only around 5% of the overall youth population identify as LGBT.
The documentary film, produced and directed by Calvin Skaggs of Lumiere Productions Inc, will delve into the stories of six homeless LGBT teens struggling on the streets of New York City. In addition, the film will focus on how the Ali Forney Center, the nation's largest organization dedicated to helping homeless LGBT youth, is assisting these teens and getting them back on their feet.
We previously got acquainted with two teens whose journeys will be followed in the film, Danielle and Giovanno. Now two more short clips have been released. In one, Danielle is back and asking what happened to the American dream. In another, we are introduced to Benjamin as he speaks with his case worker at the Ali Forney Center's drop-in center. Watch the clips here:
Although the documentary footage has been shot over the course of the past year, the production team needs to raise money to begin the editing process. Help ensure the film is completed so that this important issue can be brought to the attention of viewers. Visit the film's Kickstarter page to learn more and to make a donation.
Along with the production of Road to Home, we are continuing to see action being taken in other ways, giving homeless LGBT teens the attention they deserve.
The Ali Forney Center recently partnered with the National Coalition for the Homeless to launch the National Campaign for Youth Shelter, a movement to prioritize the protection of homeless youth across the United States. Visit the campaign's website to learn more about their goals and find out ways to get involved.
In addition, the Kaufman Music Center in New York City is hosting the 4th Annual Night of a Thousand Judys to honor the legacy of Judy Garland and raise money for homeless LGBT youth. The musical event, taking place on Monday, June 16, will feature a lineup of Broadway stars and music legends and all proceeds will benefit the Ali Forney Center. Click here to find tickets for this exciting event.