Pgh Needs More Foster Families, Especially For Queer Kids

At any given time, there are 1,300 children in foster care in Allegheny County, and almost one-third of those older kids identify as LGBTQ. They often have to live outside the homes they grew up in because they aren't getting the affirming love and support they need. We’re with freelancer and City Cast contributor Meg St. Esprit and Jaime Simmons, chief engagement officer for Every Child Inc., to talk about why those figures are so high, their own experiences with the foster care system, and what prospective adoptive parents should know. Read Meg’s beautiful piece for PublicSource: ‘I put my fighting gloves on a lot faster.’ How understanding foster parents may mean ‘life or death’ for trans kids.  Today’s news: The lawsuit over the death of Jim Rogers has yielded $8 million to his family And it’s your last day to register to vote for the primary. Check your registration here. Want some more Pittsburgh news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter Hey Pittsburgh. We’re also on Twitter @citycastpgh & Instagram @CityCastPgh! Not a fan of social? Then leave us a voicemail at 412-212-8893. Interested in advertising with City Cast? Find more info here.