LGBT
ACF Programs and Services for LGBT
Adoption
Many gay and lesbian families adopt children domestically as well as through intercountry adoption. In this section you will find information and resources related to adoption by LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender) families.
Child Welfare
Professionals who work with youth need to understand the lives and unique challenges of the LGBTQ youth they serve and the implications of policies, practices, and organizational climates on their experiences and outcomes.
Families of LGBTQ Youth
This section helps families support their lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, or questioning (LGBTQ) youth; understand what to expect; and learn how to talk about a number of issues that may be impacting their children.
Foster Care
LGBTQ youth enter the foster care system for a variety of reasons, some having to do with their sexual orientation or gender expression, some not. Regardless, the child welfare system has a mandate, as it does with any child in foster care, to ensure their opportunities for safety, permanency, and well being.
Human Trafficking
LGBT youth make up 40% of the runaway and homeless youth population, and once on the streets, they face high chances of becoming victims of human trafficking.
LGBT Health & Well-being
Like all Americans, LGBT Americans deserve respectful and culturally competent medical care and the security of affordable health care that meets their needs. HHS is committed to making this a reality for the LGBT community.
LGBT Refugees
Refugees resettling in the United States face unique challenges, but lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender (LGBT) refugees are particularly vulnerable. ACF funds programs that provide culturally competent services to this population.
Survivors of Intimate Partner Violence
Violence affects everyone regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. ACF administers the Family Violence Prevention and Services Act (FVPSA), the primary federal funding stream dedicated to the support of emergency shelters and related assistance for victims of domestic violence and their children, including LGBT survivors.
