Phillys first Trans focused LGBTQ plus Safe Haven

Hello , my name is Tatyana woodard . I am the co-founder of the Ark of Safety LGBTQ+ Safe Haven . We are a Faith Based Nonprofit Organization based in Philadelphia working to create a world where LGBTQ+ facing Homelessness and Housing insecurity feel valued, supported and loved . We believe that the major reason Homelessness and Housing insecurity still exists is because it hasn’t been given the proper attention. Shelters and safe havens are not Trans and/or LGBQIA competent and spaces haven’t been created to address the needs of homeless LGBTQ+ individuals. Therefore, we offer a Trauma informed LGBTQ+ affirming space with peer support services.

Since 2021 , we have been able to identify the need and structure a plan that we know will work, using our own expertise coupled with our professional experience. We have real life experience dealing with homelessness and Housing insecurity . Our priority will be Black and Brown Trans-women, who, because of the intersections of transphobia, homophobia and racism in our systems, are disproportionately impacted by homelessness and Housing insecurities.

Our current goal is to Have a Fully operating Safe Haven by February 1 , 2022. We have already secured Building and have the support of The office of LGBTQ+ Affairs . Our goal is 20,000 and we hope to secure more than that. This amount would cover expenses including but not limited to rent, furnishing, decor to beautify the space, staffing to pay a living wage to people with passion and lived experience and other operating costs.