Fostering Conversations with Utah Foster Care5 Jun 2023

Ep 36: Queer Kids in Foster Care

Trigger Warning: This episode contains subjects that may be upsetting to some. Please use discretion.

Every child deserves to grow up in a safe and loving environment, especially those in foster care who have already experienced trauma and displacement. However, queer kids in foster care face unique challenges and are often more vulnerable than their heterosexual and cisgender counterparts. It is essential for us as a society to recognize and address these challenges, and most importantly, to show up for queer kids in foster care by providing them with the support, understanding, and acceptance they need to thrive.

Research has shown that LGBTQ kids who have support from caring adults are more likely to succeed academically, have higher self-esteem, and experience lower rates of substance abuse and suicide. By showing up for these children, we can significantly improve their long-term outcomes and set them on a path toward success.

Our guest this month, Jonathan Foulk, Co-CEO of the Utah Pride center shares his heartbreaking story of growing up queer in foster care.

For more resources:

Utah Pride Center

Safe Home Pledge

Mama Dragons

Want to learn more about becoming a Foster Parent?

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