Sacramento County’s Department of Child, Family and Adult Services (DCFAS) is raising awareness and support for LGBTQ+ youth in the child welfare system. Research shows that about a third of youth in child welfare identify as LGBTQ+.
To address this, DCFAS will be launching an internal training initiative in the coming months. This training aims to raise awareness among staff and equip them to have meaningful discussions with youth about their identities, including sexual orientation and gender identity, and expression. The goal is to ensure all youth in the County’s care receive holistic and affirming support and services.
“We really want to bring awareness to the number of youth in our system who identify as LGBTQ+ and the need for appropriate services and supports, including affirming Resource Family Homes,” said Karen Parker, DCFAS Human Services Division Manager.
On June 11, DCFAS staff planted rainbow pinwheels at the office on Bradshaw Road, mirroring the Child Abuse Awareness Month pinwheel planting event. This shows the department’s support for LGBTQ+ youth and increases awareness in the community. This is the first year the department planted the rainbow pinwheels, and it is a tradition that staff hope to continue in future years.
The rainbow pinwheel planting is just one of many steps DCFAS staff takes to create an inclusive and supportive environment for all children and teens in foster care. As part of the year-round commitment to supporting LGBTQ+ foster youth, DCFAS also has specially trained staff known as LGBTQ+ Resource Specialists.
If you are interested in becoming a resource parent, formerly known as a foster parent, learn more about the steps to become a resource parent.
CONTACT INFO:
MACY OBERNUEFEMANN, SACRAMENTO COUNTY PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICE, (916) 874-3540
