Standing Up for LGBTQ+ Youth in Foster Care

Why CLCM Opposes Proposed Licensing Change

The Children’s Law Center of Massachusetts (CLCM) recently spoke out against a proposed change from the Department of Children and Families (DCF) that would affect who can become a foster parent. We’re not alone—the Committee for Public Counsel Services (CPCS) also submitted comments urging the agency to reconsider and recommending an alternative.  

Here’s what’s happening, and why it matters for kids.  

What’s Changing  

Before December 2025, foster parents had to demonstrate that they could support and respect any child’s sexual orientation and gender identity prior to being licensed to serve as foster parents. In December 2025, DCF implemented an emergency regulation that replaced that clear requirement with vague language saying that foster parents had to show they could support a child’s “individual identity and needs.”  

At first glance, that might sound similar. But removing explicit protections could make it easier for children—especially LGBTQ+ youth—to be placed in homes that aren’t prepared or willing to support them.  

Why This Matters for Youth Safety and Stability  

Studies show LGBTQ+ youth are overrepresented in foster care and often face more challenges once in care. A report from the Massachusetts Commission on Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer & Questioning Youth found that many experienced unsafe or unwelcoming homes, along with barriers to education and health care. Youth reported experiences ranging from misgendering to hostile foster home environments—conditions that can cause lasting harm.  

Supportive homes can make a life-changing difference. Research from The Trevor Project shows that when LGBTQ+ young people have affirming caregivers, their risk of suicide attempts drops significantly.  

Without explicit requirements that foster parents be prepared to support the identities of all foster children, some children could end up in homes where they are mistreated and/or rejected — leading to housing disruptions and emotional harm. Because DCF does not always know how a child identifies—or will identify as they grow older— it is imperative that every foster parent is prepared to support and affirm all children. 

What’s at Stake  

Foster parents play a crucial role in the lives of youth living in foster care. They aren’t just providing housing—they’re helping children heal, grow, and build stability during some of the hardest moments of their lives. Clear standards help ensure foster homes are truly safe and supportive for all children.  

If a child must be in substitute care, they deserve a foster home where they feel safe, affirmed, and valued. We call on DCF to keep clear standards in place that protect LGBTQ+ youth and ensure that promise is real for every child in care.