Octavia: "I used drugs and sex to deal with the pain."

PHOTOGRAPH BY: Beth Stirnaman

http://framework.latimes.com/?attachment_id=115136

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Beverly St. James: "I was homeless in MacArthur Park for about a year. For a person that had never been there [from a wealthy family], I was speechless. But I knew I had to endure."

PHOTOGRAPH BY: Beth Stirnaman

http://framework.latimes.com/?attachment_id=115137

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Taunyett Thompson: "It was difficult at first because my parents wouldn't let me wear female clothes. I ran away from home."

PHOTOGRAPH BY: Beth Stirnaman

http://framework.latimes.com/?attachment_id=115138

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Olivia St. John: "Many people in the transgender community believe that selling their bodies is the only option for them. Now I feel like I have the position to call others out to help them get out of it."

PHOTOGRAPH BY: Beth Stirnaman

http://framework.latimes.com/?attachment_id=115139

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Myka Moon: "I have been denied services because [they said] they couldn't guarantee my safety."

PHOTOGRAPH BY: Beth Stirnaman

http://framework.latimes.com/?attachment_id=115140

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Kourtney Glass: "I have been homeless in the past. Some fights I have with my boyfriend border on abusive. Last time we got into it, I basically left. I didn't have food, money, anything. That was a very bad feeling."

PHOTOGRAPH BY: Beth Stirnaman

http://framework.latimes.com/?attachment_id=115141

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Vivica Williams: "I am on a voucher at the Weingart [shelter program]. After Tuesday I will not have anywhere to live. I am tired of getting solicited by the men."

PHOTOGRAPH BY: Beth Stirnaman

http://framework.latimes.com/?attachment_id=115142

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A'sha White - "My mom kicked me out when I decided to fully transition. When I was homeless, multiple missions said that if I stayed there, I would have to present myself as a man."

PHOTOGRAPH BY: Beth Stirnaman

http://framework.latimes.com/?attachment_id=115143

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