LGBTQIA2S+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning, intersex, asexual, Two-Spirit, or other gender or sexual identity) youth are overrepresented in foster care. LGBTQIA2S+ individuals and families have faced discrimination when seeking approval to become foster or adoptive parents, which limits the availability of families to support placements for LGBTQIA2S+ youth. Additionally, parents and caregivers of transgender or nonbinary youth have faced significant barriers to helping them access gender-affirming medical care and other treatment options that support their well-being.
Affirming and supporting children, youth, and families with LGBTQIA2S+ identities is vital. Child welfare professionals, agencies, and community organizations should consider and address individualized needs—no matter the service setting—by following best practices and referring families to programs designed to improve outcomes for LGBTQIA2S+ individuals.
Additionally, engaging LGBTQIA2S+ people with lived experience can help providers develop more equitable policies, better understand needs and how to support the community, and help identify gaps in services and resources.
Child welfare professionals and community organization members can use these resources to help implement policy and practice changes that support equity for the LGBTQIA2S+ community.
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Guidance for Title IV-B and IV-E Agencies When Serving LGBTQI+ Children and Youth
Find guidance for title IV-B and IV-E agencies serving lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning, intersex, asexual, Two-Spirit, or other gender or sexual identity children and youth who are involved with the child welfare system.
Creating LGBTQ Affirming Agencies
Learn how to create a culturally inclusive environment by developing a welcoming, culturally sensitive, supportive, and affirming agency for all people through two videos. Furthermore, find additional resources with related content.
Addressing Disproportionality, Disparity, and Equity Throughout Child Welfare
Examine the Children's Bureau's commitment to addressing disproportionality and disparity in child welfare for people of color; those who experience poverty; and other populations who historically have experienced disproportionality and disparity.
Creating an Affirming Home for LGBTQ+ Youth as a Foster or Adoptive Parent
Find information on how to create a welcoming and affirming home for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning, intersex, asexual, Two-Spirit, or other gender or sexual identity children and youth.
Moving Beyond Change Efforts: Evidence and Action to Support and Affirm LGBTQI+ Youth
Find information on the behavioral health of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning, intersex, asexual, Two-Spirit, or other gender or sexual identity children and youth and review strategies to improve their overall well-being.
Two-Spirit Resources
Find a collection of resources for Two-Spirit and American Indian/Alaska Native children and youth whose lives are impacted by the child welfare system and for child welfare professionals, foster and adoptive parents, and others who support them.
Safe and Respected: Policy, Best Practices, & Guidance for Serving Transgender, Gender Expansive, & Non-Binary Children and Youth Involved in the Child Welfare, Detention, and Juvenile Justice Systems
Read a guide to help child welfare professionals and others respect, affirm, and meet the individual needs of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning, intersex, asexual, Two-Spirit, or other gender or sexual identity children and youth.
Tip Sheet on Responding to Youth and Young Adult Mental Health Needs
Find a guide to help child welfare programs address the wellness and mental health needs of young people, including lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning, intersex, asexual, Two-Spirit, or other gender or sexual identity youth.
Caring for LGBTQ Children and Youth: A Guide for Child Welfare Providers
Find information about the care and support of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, questioning, intersex, asexual, Two-Spirit, or other gender or sexual identity children and youth.