A group of NGOs has initiated a campaign to raise RM30,000 to help 30 homeless lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and queer (LGBTQ) persons to move into a new home.

Pro-LGBTQ group People Like Us Hang Out (Pluho), which joined hands with Pelangi Community and Jejaka, have managed to find them a house after learning about the plight of the persons.

"In the last one year and in the Klang Valley alone, a total of 30 LGBTQ youths, who had been kicked out from their homes, have found shelter with local LGBT communities Pelangi Campaign and Jejaka," Pluho said in a Facebook posting yesterday.

"Some of these youths had lost their jobs when their bosses found out they have HIV, some were kicked out from homes when families found out they are queer, and some simply had to run away from abusive, homophobic and transphobic families and relatives.

"Without anyone to turn to or anywhere to go, LGBTQ youths facing homelessness in Malaysia often disappear into the shadows. That is why many of us never hear about them.

People can donate money or needed items

Pluho urged the public to donate money or items for the youths.

"We are aiming to raise RM 30,000 for our first phase of funding by the end of December to get the shelter started by January 2021," said Pluho.

The money will be used for rent and utilities, basic furniture as well as meals.

"The money will be used as temporary financial support to shelter them, as most would have been forced out of their family, homes or jobs," Pluho said.

Apart from that, the money would also be spent on providing psychosocial support for LGBTQ persons facing trauma, panic attacks, depression and other forms of mental health issues arising from their recent experiences, Pluho added.

Members of the public are also encouraged to donate items, included furniture, used mobile phones or tablets, food items and even dry grocery. Details for donations are listed in the Pluho Facebook posting as listed above.