Cyndi Lauper Opens the FIRST Permanent Supportive Housing facility for LGBT in New York State

The True Colors Residence, a project of West End Intergenerational Residence and partners Cyndi Lauper and her manager Lisa Barbaris, is slated to open in Central Harlem this summer (2011). True Colors will be the first permanent, supportive housing facility for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender youth in New York State.

A Letter from Cyndi Lauper:
"In New York City, a very disproportionate number (up to 40%), of homeless youth identify as LGBT. Even more disturbing are reports that these young people often face discrimination and at times physical assault in some of the very places they have to for help. This is shocking and inexcusable! That's why my manager, Lisa Barbaris and I are collaborating with Colleen Jackson and West End Intergenerational Residence to create the True Colors Residence, (TCR), a permanent supportive housing program for homeless LGBT youth 18-24 years old.

We'll be building from the ground up so our residents will have a brand new, modern building with studio apartments for each resident and both indoor and outdoor community space to socialize or attend education and recreation programs. Each resident will be responsible for paying affordable rent based on their income and will receive ongoing assistance in obtaining employment best suited to their individual interests and skills. Although TCR will not require participation in it's programs, a variety of social and educational support services will be available to all who request them. Our primary goal is to provide a physically and emotionally safe and supportive environment that will empower our young residents to be the self-loving, happy, and successful individuals they were meant to be.

As longtime supporters, Lisa and I know that West End has been a trailblazing forward-thinking organization that is willing to do whatever is necessary to serve those in need. Their services have, in our experience, always met the highest standards.

I am proud to work with Colleen and West End on such an exciting and important project as the True Colors Residence and I ask for your support as we move forward."


For more information on the True Colors Residence, show your support and visit:    http://www.intergenerational.org/truecolors.php

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