Asia's House opens in Houston for LGBTQ+ teens in crisis

A new shelter in Houston is set to provide critical support for older queer and trans youth facing homelessness.

Told by Claire Lawson · 29 August 2026

A vital new emergency shelter, Asia's House, has opened in Houston to provide crucial support for older LGBTQ+ youth experiencing homelessness. Designed specifically for young people aged 15 to 17, this facility fills a significant gap as the city’s first temporary emergency shelter catering to queer and trans youth.

Courtney Sellers, Executive Director of Grace Place, the nonprofit behind the shelter, emphasized the urgency of this initiative, stating that previously, there were no emergency shelters in the city where individuals under 18 could independently access overnight services. Asia's House can accommodate up to six youth at a time, with each occupant provided their own bedroom, ensuring a private and secure environment.

The concept of Asia's House is named in honor of Asia Foster, a Black trans woman murdered in 2020, who was an advocate for better services for LGBTQ+ youth. This naming serves as a poignant reminder of the violence faced by trans individuals and the need for supportive spaces.

The shelter aims for residents to stay roughly three to six nights while staff work to facilitate safe reconnections with family where possible. Notably, the Montrose Center, the city’s LGBTQ+ community hub, will provide wrap-around services to ensure comprehensive support for the young residents. This includes helping families become affirming and addressing barriers to support for LGBTQ+ youth.

In a state like Texas, where political leaders are increasingly hostile towards LGBTQ+ rights, the opening of Asia's House highlights the urgent need for dedicated resources. According to the National Network for Youth, LGBTQ+ youth represent nearly 40% of the homeless youth population, despite being only about 9.5% of the overall youth demographic. This stark contrast underscores how critical shelters like Asia's House are in combating homelessness and providing safe spaces for vulnerable youth.