In 2016, a nonprofit organization in the Montrose area of Houston, Tony’s Place, opened to serve as a supporting pillar for LGBTQ+ youth and allies who are homeless and unstably housed.
“Our mission is LGBTQ+ youth ages from 14 to 25. Over 40% of homeless are part of the LGBTQ+ youth community. It is a need as other organizations focus on serving adults, so we focus on the youth as they are our next generations,” says Carrie Rai, executive director of Tony’s Place.
Although still being a small nonprofit, Tony’s Place has grown significantly. Each year, the organization serves an increasing number of LGBTQ+ youth, many of whom visit multiple times a day, week, or month. Seeking the quality services it provides.
“We have grown significantly over the past few years,” said Rai. “In January 2025 we had multiple individuals come in 150 times. This past January, we had clients come in 950 times. Serving over 140 individual clients and providing about 900 meals during that month.”
The services provided by the organization vary greatly, as it offers a wide range of physical needs, supplies, groups for activities, education, and mental health care. This gives individuals plenty of options and reasons to return.
“We offer services in many different ways. Day center, drop center, resource center, hot meals, clothing, showers, laundry, hygiene, and many others, “ says Rai, “there is also a focus on providing mental health care along with specific case management tied to that individual, and giving them support for employment while also providing safe spaces for the youth.”
Because of the size of Tony’s Place and the many services it provides, along with its status as a nonprofit, the organization relies heavily on community support. This includes volunteers who provide needed manpower.
“The support we need from the community is in the form of in-kind and monetary donations. Clothes, food, water, hygiene supplies, shampoo, razors etc. all come from donations,” says Rai. “people can also volunteer by signing up. These jobs include such things as being a personal shopper, doing laundry, picking out clothes for individuals, and helping staff with events.”
Outside their in-house services, Tony’s Place also host and supports events to raise awareness and extend its reach to those in need. Giving individuals an enjoyable experiences through a wide range of activities.
“On Easter Sunday we will have a beneficiary for “Bunnies on the Bayou”. Then on May 31, we will hold a pickle ball tournament that will act as a fundraiser. For later in the year, we are planning a major fundraiser that will be held on August 23 at ARTECHOUSE. A multimedia place that will have an auction and provide light bites,” says Rai.
To support Tony’s Place, visit at Tonysplace.org for information about providing donations and how to sign up to volunteer or contact Tony’s Place at [email protected] or (713) 678-0733.
