Building safe spaces for trans families fleeing hostile legislation inside the U.S.

Lou’s House offers transitional housing and support services for transgender individuals and their families, helping them escape harmful environments and rebuild their lives.

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Our mission is to provide safe, supportive housing and services to transgender individuals fleeing anti-trans legislation in hostile states.

Inspired by the legacy of Lou Sullivan, we are committed to helping trans men and women and their families rebuild their lives in the welcoming community of San Francisco.

WHO’S LOU?

Lou Sullivan (1951-1991) was a pioneering transgender activist and one of the first openly gay trans men. Lou not only fought for trans visibility but also transformed the way society viewed gender and sexuality. He is best known for founding FTM International, the first support network for trans men, and for offering his own home as a safe haven for transgender people traveling to San Francisco for surgeries or needing temporary shelter.

Through his activism, Lou created a vital community that provided housing, healthcare resources, and emotional support to trans men. His legacy of compassion and advocacy lives on, inspiring new generations to continue his work.

Our Services

Transitional Housing

Providing temporary safe housing for transgender individuals and families fleeing unsafe environments, ensuring a stable foundation for rebuilding their lives.

Camdyn’s Fund

Specialized support for pregnant men fleeing abusive relationships. Camdyn’s Fund provides additional assistance and healthcare support to help these men safely transition out of dangerous environments. [Who’s Camdyn?]

Healthcare Navigation

We assist in connecting residents to gender-affirming healthcare, including navigating Medi-Cal and mental health services.

Employment Support

Helping individuals gain employment through resume assistance, job search support, and partnerships with local businesses.

Legal Services

Support for legal name and gender changes, social assistance applications, and navigating legal barriers for transgender individuals and families.

Community Care

We provide a network of community resources, connecting our residents to trans-affirming spaces, events, and people.

Trans history. Trans futures.

We at LOU’S HOUSE envision a world where transgender individuals no longer live in fear of persecution and have full access to their human rights, including safe housing and healthcare.

Ethical Principles

  • We believe in creating a welcoming, safe space for everyone, regardless of gender identity, race, or background. Inclusivity means that each person’s unique experience is valued, and we work to ensure that all trans people, especially those fleeing hostile environments, have access to the resources and care they need.

  • Every individual deserves to live with dignity. At Lou’s House, we respect each person’s identity and autonomy, offering services that support their ability to rebuild their lives with self-respect and honor, free from judgment or stigma.

  • Lou’s House is built on empathy and understanding. Inspired by Lou Sullivan's legacy of offering his home to those in need, we are committed to providing compassionate support to trans people facing crisis situations, ensuring that everyone who walks through our doors feels cared for.

  • We are stronger together. Lou’s House fosters a sense of community, connecting trans individuals with local resources and support networks to ensure they can thrive in an environment of mutual care and solidarity.

Our House

The Castro Neighborhood
San Francisco, CA 94114

**NOT AVAILABLE FOR VISITORS, YET.

 

Directors & Staff

  • Calvin Anderson, MA

    FOUNDER / EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

  • Carl Faust

    HOUSE MANAGER / SECRETARY

JOIN US


VOLUNTEER: Join us in making a difference by volunteering your time and skills. We need help with everything from day-to-day support for our residents to organizing community events.

DONATE: Your donation directly impacts the lives of transgender individuals and families fleeing persecution. Whether it’s $10 or $1,000, your contribution makes a difference.

PARTNERSHIPS: We’re always looking to collaborate with organizations and businesses that share our mission. If you’re interested in becoming a partner, let’s work together to help those in need.

NOTE: We are also looking to accept in-kind donations at this time. If you would like to donate gently used linens, bedding, or furniture, we would appreciate it!

Support our growth