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Support LGBTQ+ Youth

LGBTQ+ Youth in the Foster Care System

Many LGBTQ+ youth come out to family members and are met with life-altering rejection, hatred, and violence. As a result, many are forced out of their homes or run away, becoming homeless or entering the foster care system.

Research has shown that a staggering percentage of children in foster care identify as LGBTQ+. Sadly, the same research forces us to confront the fact that LGBTQ+ youth in foster care face disparities – significant differences in their experiences and treatment within the system.

We Focus on LGBTQ+ Youth in the Foster Care System

LGBTQ+ youth in foster care often face repeated rejections and profound losses, leaving them fearful of being themselves and seeking help. Alarming studies reveal that 26% of LGBTQ+ youth are forced to leave their homes upon coming out, and 78% experience anti-LGBTQ+ bias in foster care. This stark reality leaves them extremely vulnerable to homelessness and despair.

At YGB, we are dedicated to changing this narrative.

We tirelessly work to connect these youth with permanent, affirming families, ensuring they receive the love and stability they deserve. Our mission is to provide safe, supportive, and nurturing environments where LGBTQ+ youth can thrive and live authentically.

Supporting LGBTQ+ Parents:

We believe that every adult, regardless of orientation, age, or status, can provide the loving, permanent home that foster youth need. With evolving societal views on family and marriage, we encourage LGBTQ+ single adults and couples to consider becoming parents to foster youth, enriching both their lives and those of the youth they welcome into their families.

Our Achievements

  • YGB is a founding partner of the ACS LGBT Action Group and collaborates with The Center’s LGBT Foster Care Project to increase homes for all youth, particularly LGBTQ+ youth.
  • YGB has been the recipient of the Human Rights Campaign's All Children-All Families Seal of Recognition for our inclusive policies and practices.

Our Impact

  • Our initiatives include impactful projects like the first-ever PRIDE photo exhibit of LGBTQ+ youth and families, showcased at various venues across New York City.
  • All YGB families sign a pledge to provide an affirming and welcoming home for LGBTQ+ youth.
  • YGB welcomes LGBTQ+ parents; approximately 50% of our families have LGBTQ+ parents.
  • YGB proudly partners with the LGBT center to train couples and individuals to become YGB parents.

Join Us in Making a Difference

By making a legacy gift to YGB, you can help us continue our mission of building and supporting LGBTQ+ families for generations to come. Your contribution ensures that LGBTQ+ youth find the loving, permanent homes they need to thrive.
Join Us Today

Building Inclusive Families for LGBTQ+ Youth in Foster Care

Key Stats and Facts

40%

40% of YGB parents identify as LGBTQ+.

57%

57% of participants in YGB’s most recent parent training course identified as LGBTQ+.

Nationwide

Nationwide, LGBTQ+ parents are seven times more likely to adopt and foster children compared to straight counterparts.

30%

An estimated 30% of youth in foster care identify as LGBTQ+, many entering care due to family rejection based on their identity.

Higher Rates

LGBTQ+ youth in foster care face higher rates of mistreatment and are more likely to be placed in group homes.

Impact of Permanent Families

  • Youth with permanent families experience less homelessness, arrest, and unemployment.
  • They are more likely to pursue higher education
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