In honor of Pride Month, we celebrate Eljay, an 18-year-old transgender individual who found solace in CHS’ Transitional Living Program (TLP) after experiencing homelessness.
TLP is a transformative initiative supporting youth aging out of foster care or experiencing homelessness. It provides safe housing, comprehensive life skills development, and a supportive community. Participants like Eljay are equipped with their own kitchen, bathroom, and living area, empowering them to learn essential adult skills and live independently.
Having been in the program for about a month, Eljay emphasizes the importance of focusing on the present and building confidence. He recognizes the significance of staying positive and not letting anyone bring you down, regardless of the situation. His advice to teens facing homelessness or tough circumstances is to prioritize self-care, maintain high confidence levels, and focus on personal growth.
Eljay speaks highly of TLP, describing it as a welcoming environment with kind staff members. He highlights the program’s inclusive nature, emphasizing that everyone is accepted, regardless of their background or circumstances.
Eljay’s empowering advice extends not only to young individuals but also to fellow members of the LGBTQ+ community. He encourages others to embrace their true selves and resist any attempts to change or suppress their identity. His message is clear: you are who you are, and no one has the power to alter that. By staying true to himself and refusing to conform, Eljay inspires others within the community to stand tall, celebrate their uniqueness, and live authentically.
During this Pride Month, let us celebrate Eljay’s story and continue to empower individuals in their pursuit of self-acceptance, pride, and a brighter future.
