Queers
Never
Experiencing
Shame and
Trauma
What do we do?
Our goal is to provide safe, inclusive group housing and comprehensive support services that empower LGBTQIA2S+ youth to lead healthy, fulfilling lives.
What do we Offer*?
Safe Housing: Our group homes are designed to be safe, welcoming spaces where LGBTQ+ youth can live without fear of discrimination or prejudice.
Supportive Community:
We foster a sense of belonging through a compassionate community of staff, volunteers, and peers.
Resources and Services:
We provide access to counseling, educational support, life skills training, and other essential services.
Advocacy:
We advocate for the rights and well-being of LGBTQ+ youth, promoting understanding and acceptance in the broader community.
* As of 2025 we are building our community. We are currently fundraising to open our first house.
About us
Our founder, Sarela Bliman-Cohen, volunteers with various NPOs in the Boston area. Through the years, she witnessed and learned of the challenges facing homeless LGBTQ+ minors rejected by their families. Sarela realized there is a gap in care and founded QNEST - Queers Never Experiencing Shame and Trauma.
40%
Homeless youth identify as LGBTQ+, while the general youth population is only 10% LGBTQ.
- National Homeless
37%
LGBTQ experiencing housing instability attempted suicide
- The Trevor Project
62%
Homeless LGBTQ youth who reported seriously considering suicide in the past year.
- The Trevor Project
86%
LGBTQ+ youth have experienced harassment at school
Source GLSEN
Sergia's Story
Sergia was a transgender non-conforming youth who came from the South to study at a Northeast college. After coming out to their family they were rejected and all ties were severed. Sergia found themselves homeless and without financial support. Luckily for Sergia, they were able to obtain scholarships that carried them through college and provided them the housing solution they needed.
Providing A Brighter Future for LGBTQ+ Minors
"It is not our differences that divide us. It is our inability to recognize, accept, and celebrate those differences."
Audre Lorde