On any given day, well over 260,000 kids are in the foster care or juvenile justice programs. It is estimated that lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender youth represent between 10-25% of this population. Among youth ages 14-18, the number is closer to 30%, many of whom have been forced into out-of-home care solely as a result of their LGBTQ identity.

Every 5 hours, a teen who identifies as LGBTQ takes his or her life in the United States. Many cannot deal with the added stresses that society puts on them. LGBTQ teens are three times more likely to attempt suicide than heterosexual teens, and they have a higher rate of success. In addition, more than 80% of LGBTQ youth are bullied in school because of their sexuality. Placement in foster care programs in many cases does not adequately address their emotional and mental health needs. Providing for the safety of these youth is a critical concern.

Pathways LGBTQ Resource Program provides training and resources for staff and foster parents who work with this population. The goal of the LGBTQ program is to promote understanding through education so that attitudes will be changed and kids no longer will be traumatized.

Go back to the Pathways page.