Taking Pride in LGBTQ+ Foster Families

Ep.12 While thousands of children wait for safe, loving families, too many qualified same-sex parents are discouraged and kids are overlooked by outdated foster and adoptions agency bias. This episode highlights the work of Families Thrive, a New York based agency committed to supporting all families through the foster care and adoption journey. Veronica Black, Lauri McKnight, and Rachel Doig explore why LGBTQ+ youth are disproportionately represented in foster care, the mental health impact of rejection, and how foster and adoptive families can create truly inclusive environments where every child feels seen, celebrated, and accepted. Whether you're considering fostering, adopting, or simply want to be a better ally, this conversation offers valuable insight, compassion, and practical resources. Resources Mentioned:• Families Thrive | 585-232-5110• Trillium Health• MOCHA Center Rochester• NAMI Rochester Because every child deserves a safe, loving home—and every family deserves the opportunity to provide one. Chapters: 00:00 Inclusivity in Foster Care 05:17 Supporting LGBTQ Youth 10:56 Embracing Identity and Acceptance in Foster Care 12:57 Acceptance and Education 20:05 Ensuring Safe Spaces and Genuine Inclusivity 21:21 Challenges and Successes in Same-Sex Adoption and Fostering 31:33 LGBTQ Resources in Rochester 34:05 Supporting LGBTQ Families in Foster Care and Adoption Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices