The Albert Kennedy Trust held their annual gala dinner at the Grange Tower Bridge Hotel in London, raising vital funds and raising awareness for homeless LGBTI youth throughout the United Kingdom.
Hosted by Big Brother UK winner and TV personality Brian Dowling, the event highlighted the struggles and hardships that homeless LGBTI youth are forced to face after being rejected by their their family as a result of their sexuality or gender identification.
Many LGBTI Youth that find themselves on the streets often fear physical, emotional and sexual abuse at home. An estimated 24% of all homeless youth in the UK identify themselves as LGBTI, with 77% believing their sexuality or gender identity was a contributing factor in being rejected from their home.
A wide range of items where auctioned off in aid of the trust which has been providing safe homes, emergency accommodation, mentoring and training for LGBT youth for over 25 years.
Guests at the gala dinner were entertained with performances from X Factor UK contestant Ray Quinn and a DJ set by Cucumber star Andrew Hayden-Smith who had the goal of beating the previous gala dinner donation total of £83,000.
Golden Globe winning actor Sir Ian McKellen showed his support for the gala dinner saying, “Last year The Albert Kennedy Trust provided almost 8,000 nights off the streets to young people who had experienced rejection, abuse or violence just for being brave enough to come out to their parents or caregiver. With your help, tonight and all year round, we can continue to make a difference to young LGBT people.”
The funds raised at the Albert Kennedy Trust gala dinner help provide accommodation through the Purple Door House, and provide Emergency Support packs to young people.
The funds also help support the Albert Kennedy Trust’s first national online service, eMentoring, which aims to bring support to young people in need, including those in rural areas.
Last Updated on Nov 22, 2015
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