AFFIRM: Supporting LGBTQ2S youth in Foster Care

About the Program

Category: Children and Youth (Best in Category)

Year: 2019

The Prince George’s County Department of Social Services (PGCDSS) is committed to ensuring that all populations are served equally, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. The agency has partnered with the National Quality Improvement Center on Tailored Services, Placement Stability and Permanency for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Questioning, and Two-Spirit Children and Youth in Foster Care (QIC-LGBTQ2S) to develop a well-rounded support and service initiative. In 2017, PGCDSS developed and implemented its AFFIRM program for LGBTQ2S youth in foster care and their caregivers. AFFIRM is an evidence based supportive program based around the clinical treatment modality of cognitive behavioral therapy for LGBTQ2S youth and their caregivers. AFFIRM focuses on helping youth improve coping skills and provides peer support. It helps parents and caregivers celebrate, honor and validate a range of LGBTQ2S identities and experiences and recognize the impact of discrimination and phobia on the well-being of youth. PGCDSS hopes that implementing such a comprehensive approach will help our agency achieve safety, permanency, and well-being for all LGBTQ2S youth in their care. Currently, PGCDSS is the only child welfare department in the state with a unit dedicated to providing services and support for LGBTQ2S youth in foster care.