Five days after her first studio album in 13 years hits stores, Amy Grant will play the Troubadour in West Hollywood.
The concert is a fundraiser for Covenant House California, a nonprofit that has been helping homeless youth in Hollywood since 1988. The inaugural event is called “Speak Out” and takes place Wednesday, May 13, at the venue on the west end of Santa Monica Boulevard. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the show is expected to run approximately two hours — until 8:30 p.m.
Grant is a six-time GRAMMY Award winner and 2022 Kennedy Center Honoree. Her new album, The Me That Remains, will be available to pick up beginning May 8.
The cause has roots in our queer community. West Hollywood incorporated in 1984 in part as a refuge for LGBTQ individuals rejected by their families. Compassionate residents, elected officials and City staff have worked hard to help support those in need ever since. According to data from the Los Angeles LGBT Center, up to 40 percent of homeless youth ages 18 to 24 in the local area identify as LGBTQ+.
Covenant House California says roughly 30 percent of the young people it serves identify as LGBTQ+. The most common reason those kids end up homeless is family rejection over their gender identity or sexual orientation.
The organization’s Los Angeles shelter is at 1325 N. Western Ave. in Hollywood, less than a mile from West Hollywood’s eastern boundary.
Chief Programs Officer Ami Rowland said the need is urgent. “At a time when too many young people are facing homelessness across California, events like Speak Out are critical to sustaining the services and support they rely on,” Rowland said. “We look forward to welcoming Amy Grant to help us raise both awareness and essential funds. This night is about turning compassion into action and ensuring every young person has the chance to thrive.”
The night’s event will include young people talking about how the organization has helped to save their lives. They’re expected to describe their experiences with homelessness and how CHC’s programs helped them reach independence.
Covenant House California operates across five locations in Anaheim, Los Angeles, Oakland, Santa Clara, and Hayward. It serves more than 1,300 young people each year through emergency shelter, meals, mental health care, education, and career readiness programs.
Grant said she sees a connection between the music and the mission. “Music has always been a way for me to connect with people’s stories, and the stories of the young people at Covenant House California are full of courage and hope,” Grant said. “I’ve always believed that healing happens in community. Being part of this night is an honor, and I’m grateful to lend my voice to support CHC’s mission as they continue this essential work.”
Tickets are on sale at covenanthousecalifornia.org/speakout/. Proceeds from ticket sales go directly toward CHC’s shelter and support programs.
The Troubadour is at 9081 Santa Monica Blvd. on West Hollywood.
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