Sydia founded TLAS in 2010 and since then has helped hundreds of homeless teens. Aside from providing them with basic necessities of clean clothes, food, medical care, the most important thing TLAS provides for these homeless teens is hope for their future. Like Sydia, many of these teens had attempted suicide and were also in need of mental health services.

TLAS hosts Teen Summits and Self esteem classes focused on boosting confidence and providing outlets for young people to process their emotions in a safe and confidential environment. Program participants receive encouragement, direction and support in goal-setting and strategic planning for their future. Sydia’s tireless efforts as an advocate for the homeless youth, have caught the attention of many celebrities including Uma Thurman & Usher; who supported The Lost Angel’s Society First Christmas Benefit in 2011.

A majority of the families within the shelter system do not have the resources to celebrate the holidays now; thanks to TLAS, they have a place to go every year. TLAS creates a Winter Wonderland specifically for families living in shelters to come and celebrate Christmas and where kids of all ages can unwrap gifts, while enjoying light refreshments and playing games. Since 2015 TLAS has provided this experience for over 300 families. 

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THE HARD TRUTH

41%

HAVE BEEN ABANDONED BY PARENTS FOR AT LEAST 24HRS

40%

OF TEENS IDENTIFY AS LGBT

80%

SELF MEDICATE WITH DRUGS OR ALCOLHOL TO SELF-MEDICATE TRAUMA

HOMELESS NUMBERS

63,495

TOTAL NUMBER OF HOMELESS

IN NYC

23,655

TOTAL NUMBER OF HOMELESS CHILDREN IN NYC (UNDER 18)

15,586

TOTAL NUMBER OF HOMELESS

FAMILIES IN NYC

10,536

TOTAL NUMBER OF HOMELESS

FAMILIES IN NYC