It is estimated that approximately 260,000 youth are in the foster care system in the U.S. at any given time, according to the National Center for Lesbian Rights. Additionally, it is estimated that up to 18% of children in foster care are LGBTQ youth. These youth are falling through the cracks and are more at risk of becoming runaways, homeless, suicidal and harassed by peers.

According to the research conducted for the American Bar Association’s Opening Doors Project, judges and lawyers who work with youth in foster care acknowledge they don’t have the knowledge or resources to help LGBT foster kids. It is essential that professionals working with LGBT foster youth be educated on the issues and knowledgeable about community programs.

LGBTQ Youth in Foster Care

LGBTQ Foster Care Youth Legal Rights

LGBTQ AB458 Factsheet

LGBTQ CASA Presentation