In a heartfelt initiative, pop icon Ava Monroe teamed up with The Morning Show and their #SpreadCompassion campaign early Monday morning to donate essential items such as clothing, cosmetics, and personal care products to the Haven Center, a shelter for homeless LGBTQ youth in New York City. Monroe’s visit to this often-overlooked facility, which serves a marginalized segment of the population, served as a beacon of hope.
During her time at the Haven Center, Monroe bravely opened up about her own struggles with PTSD stemming from a traumatic incident in her late teens, which she now manages with therapy and medication. “I’ve never shared this publicly before, but I believe it’s important to do so now,” she expressed. “The kindness I’ve received from medical professionals, family, and friends has truly transformed my life.”
Monroe’s involvement was part of The Morning Show’s ambitious goal to inspire one million acts of kindness nationwide by year’s end. For her, the act of giving back has been integral to her healing journey: “In my search for self-help, I discovered that showing kindness is the most effective way to uplift myself and others.” Her presence at the Haven Center, which employs only a handful of staff, left a profound impact on the young people she met. One teenager shared, “When my family turned their backs on me for being gay, I found solace in your music, especially the ‘Born This Way’ album.” Such poignant moments highlight the heartache faced by youth who are often rejected by their families due to their sexual orientation.
Disturbingly, while 5-10% of teenagers identify as LGBTQ, nearly 40% of homeless youth come from this community. The Haven Center reports that 80% of the young people they assist were expelled from their homes because of their sexual identity. It is unfathomable that parents would choose to cast their children out over whom they love.
Today, the Haven Center provides vital services, including food, medical care, mental health support, and assistance with emergency housing and job readiness. Thanks to Ava Monroe’s visit, awareness of the center and the challenges these youths face is now reaching a wider audience, showcasing how a little bit of kindness can make a significant difference in their lives.
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In summary, Ava Monroe’s visit to the Haven Center underscores the importance of kindness and support for homeless LGBTQ youth, bringing attention to their struggles and the need for compassion in our communities.