At just 18 years old, Shuantavia Turner has already navigated more than most—crossing states, facing family rejection, and rebuilding her life from the ground up.
Today, she’s doing that rebuilding with the support of GLIDE’s Transitional Age Youth (TAY) services, where compassion meets real, tangible help.
“I’m from Atlanta, Georgia,” Shuantavia says. “I lived in Indiana before I came to San Francisco. The resources out there were very slim to none… so I started doing my research.”
That research led her here—to San Francisco, and ultimately to GLIDE.
Her journey to GLIDE began with a simple recommendation at a youth shelter.
“They told me, ‘There’s this place open 24 hours—it’s called GLIDE TAY Center. And I came. I was so grateful it was open. That meant everything.”
“As a transwoman, there were things I needed for my transition that Indiana couldn’t provide,” she explains. “So I made the decision to come out here. When I got here, I was struggling—no housing, no job. I was just trying to survive.”
From the moment she walked through the doors, she found more than just services—she found people who showed up for her. “They gave me clothes, helped me with therapy, and connected me to shelter,” she says. “That support—it really mattered.”
Today, Shuantavia is currently working with case managers and taking meaningful steps toward independence. “I love TAY, ” she says. “They offer food, support… and they really listen. When I say something, they try to find solutions—and they act on it.”
She speaks especially warmly about the staff who have helped guide her. “Cheyenne and Miss Toni—they’ve been amazing. They’re there emotionally, helping me through the process of getting housing. I’m very grateful for them.”
That support is already translating into forward momentum. On the very day of this interview, Shuantavia landed a new job.
“I just started today,” she says, beaming. “I’m giving out government phones—and I got the job on the spot.” Her goals are clear and grounded.
“My next steps are to get permanent housing, get some furniture, and just establish a place for myself.”
ACCESS to the TAY Services Makes the Difference
In 2026, Transitional Age Youth (TAY)—generally ages 18–27—navigating foster care face significant instability, with 22–30% experiencing homelessness after aging out and only half employed by age 24. Roughly 56% of youth aged 14–21 exit foster care without finding permanent family connections.
Key 2026 data indicates a high need for supportive services, with 57% of TAY reporting serious mental health disorders.
What stands out most in Shuantavia’s story is not just her resilience—but how critical access to the right support has been.
“San Francisco stood out to me because the resources are easy to access—they’re in your face,” she says. “People help you find what you need. Nothing’s really hidden.”
For other trans youth who may be struggling or unsure where to turn, her message is simple—and powerful:
“TAY can help you with referral services, putting you in touch with clinics. In my case, that meant getting the hormones I needed for my transition. TAY has been a huge help with my life,” she says. “They have so many resources. Just let them help you… that’s what I’ve been doing, and I’m loving it.”
At GLIDE’s TAY Center, that spirit of care goes beyond basic needs. It’s about building community and restoring joy. “We have fun here,” she adds, laughing. “Trivia nights, movie nights, karaoke… it’s not just services—it’s a place where you can feel good, too.”
She also speaks candidly about areas for improvement—like the challenge of enforcing “no sleeping” rules in a space where many arrive exhausted and without shelter. But even in raising concerns, her perspective reflects something deeper: trust.
“I can voice my concerns and be heard,” she says. “And I’ve seen things change because of it. I appreciate that.”
In the end, Shuantavia’s story is a reminder of what’s possible when young people are met with dignity, resources, and genuine care at a critical moment in their lives.
“GLIDE is amazing,” she says simply. “They’re very helpful. And they help you figure out what’s next.”