The Thin Line Between Home and Homelessness: My Journey and the Fight for Housing Security

The warmth of a home is something many of us take for granted. But for those of us who have faced the cold nights in a van, the reality is much harsher. Housing insecurity is not just about losing a roof over your head; it's about losing the stability, safety, and dignity that come with having a place to call home.

Living in a Van: A Cold Reality

There was a time in my life when my home was a van. I relied on my income from the Air Force Reserve, but it was barely enough to get by. Every night, I would park in different spots to avoid the police, constantly on edge, and trying to stay warm as the temperature dropped. It wasn’t just the cold that got to me; it was the feeling of being invisible, of living on the margins of society, with no safety net. The nights were long and often filled with anxiety, as I tried to find safe places to rest, always moving to avoid trouble.

The Fragility of Housing Stability: Challenges with Housing

Even when I managed to find a place to stay, renting a room in a large house, the financial pressure was unbearable. The person I rented from sold Lego pieces online to make ends meet, but soon, my own inability to pay rent led to another eviction. I found myself back in the van, the cycle of instability continuing. The precarity of my situation highlighted how close many of us are to losing everything. One unexpected expense, one lost paycheck, and suddenly, you’re out on the street.

The Persecution of LGBTQ Youth and Adults: A Harsh Reality in LDS Homes and Beyond

For many LGBTQ individuals, the risk of homelessness is compounded by the reality of being rejected by their families, especially in more conservative or religious households. In the LDS community, this risk can be particularly high. The church’s teachings, which traditionally emphasize heterosexual marriage and view same-sex relationships as sinful, can lead to intense familial and community pressures.

LGBTQ youth in LDS homes often face an ultimatum: conform to the church’s teachings or leave. This heartbreaking choice has led to a disproportionate number of LGBTQ youth becoming homeless. Studies show that LGBTQ young people are 120% more likely to experience homelessness compared to their heterosexual peers. The situation is dire for those from LDS backgrounds, where the combination of religious belief and family dynamics can result in youth being kicked out of their homes as soon as they come out.

The problem doesn’t end with youth. In states like Montana, where there are no housing protections for LGBTQ individuals, adults face similar risks. Without legal safeguards, LGBTQ individuals can be evicted or denied housing simply because of their sexual orientation or gender identity. This lack of protection adds another layer of vulnerability, making it even harder for LGBTQ adults to secure and maintain stable housing. The fear of discrimination in housing can force many to hide their identities or live in areas where they are not fully accepted, perpetuating cycles of insecurity and fear.

The Misconception of "Less Than"

One of the most damaging aspects of society’s view of the houseless is the misconception that those without homes are somehow "less" than others. This stereotype is not only false but dangerous, as it dehumanizes people who are already vulnerable. The truth is, a person without a home can look just like you or me. During my time without stable housing, I showered at the gym or on base and made sure my clothes were clean by using the local laundromat. I did everything I could to maintain a sense of normalcy, even when my life was anything but normal.

The idea that someone is less worthy because they don’t have a permanent address is a myth that needs to be shattered. People experiencing homelessness are just as human, just as capable, and just as deserving of respect as anyone else. They could be standing next to you in line, sitting beside you on the bus, or working out next to you at the gym—and you might never know the struggles they are facing.

The Persecution of the Houseless

My story is not unique. Thousands of people experience the same fears, isolation, and persecution. Society often views those without a home as less than, as if their worth is tied to their address. This stigma only deepens the crisis, making it harder for those affected to find the support they need. The houseless are often criminalized, treated as nuisances rather than as people in need of help. This persecution is a reflection of a broader societal failure to care for our most vulnerable.

A Call to Action: Advocacy for Change

It’s time for us to change the narrative. Housing is a basic human right, and no one should be persecuted for lacking it. We need more affordable housing options, stronger social safety nets, and above all, a societal shift in how we view and treat those without homes. Let’s stop the cycle of blame and start the cycle of support. We must advocate for policies that protect people from falling into homelessness, and we must demand that our leaders address the root causes of housing insecurity, from skyrocketing rents to the lack of living wages. Furthermore, we need to push for comprehensive housing protections for LGBTQ individuals in every state, ensuring that no one is denied a home simply because of who they are.

Conclusion: A Vision for a Compassionate Future

I envision a world where no one has to live in fear of losing their home, where housing is seen as a right, not a privilege. Together, we can build a society that values every person, not for their possessions, but for their humanity. It’s a future worth fighting for, and it starts with changing how we see and treat the most vulnerable among us. Let’s work together to create a world where everyone has a safe, stable place to call home.