Transitioning Our Shelters: A Guide to Making Homeless Shelters Safe for Transgender People

Transgender people are disproportionately represented in the homeless population because of the frequent discrimination they face at home, in school and on the job.

Homeless transgender people can experience extreme difficulties obtaining adequate and safe shelter because many facilities have rules about gender-related dress or appearance.

Rules about the following can create problems:

  • Intake processes and confidentiality;
  • Harassment;
  • Showers;
  • Restrooms;
  • Sleeping arrangements;
  • Dress codes.
Publication Date: 
2003