History

Not all LGBTQIA+ children and youth have been welcomed, wanted, or safe in the homes where they were raised. In 1995, a program was started in Boston to support LGBTQIA+ youth living in foster care. Once funding for the original program ended, a group of volunteers including Mark Bilotta, Al Toney III and Judi Kirk, continued the work as Safe Homes of Central Massachusetts, a program for gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, and questioning youth who were homeless or living in unsafe environments.

A Youth Empowerment Movement

Over the years, Safe Homes as adapted to meet the needs of the youth that we serve. We’ve grown to include peer leadership, clinical mental health services, a Transgender Resource Center, and so much more! But our mainstay will always be in making sure that LGBTQIA+ youth and those who are exploring their sexual orientation, gender identities, and expressions have a nurturing, safe space to be themselves and access vital support.