You are on this page: LGBTQ Adult Foster and Adoption Resources
OCFS actively encourages local recruitment efforts to increase the diversity of families applying to become kinship/foster/adoptive resources for youth in foster care, including LGBTQ-led homes to be more reflective of the diversity of the youth we serve.
Note: External links are provided for the convenience of the user. Such use does not constitute an official endorsement or approval by the Office of Children and Family Services, as noted in the disclaimer. When users click an external link and leave the OCFS website, they should be aware that they are subject to the privacy and security policies of the external site.
Your County Department of Social Services (DSS) will be able to assist you if you're interested in becoming a foster parent for one or more of New York State's vulnerable children. To find the address and telephone number for your local DSS, follow the link above and select your county. In New York City, contact the Administration for Children's Services. Learn more about the requirements to become a foster family.
National research shows that 13% of same-sex couples raising children are raising adopted children and same-sex couples are six times more likely to be raising a foster child than different-sex couples. Additionally, over 35 years of research on the abilities of parents to raise children have shown there is “no difference” in heterosexual-sex parents' ability to raise children when compared to same-sex parents.
LGBTQ parents can face specific challenges in child rearing. If you are looking for support, the following directories can help you identify your nearest LGBTQ Center, or LGBTQ-affirming service provider:
- Look up your nearest LGBTQ Center on Center Link, a nationwide directory of LGBTQ Centers. LGBTQ Centers may provide the following services:
- Direct access or referral to LGBTQ-affirming mental and medical health providers, legal services, nonprofit programming, housing/shelter needs, etc.
- Cultural competency training for agencies, districts, schools, etc.
- LGBTQ-affirming and informed mental health professionals on staff
- Ongoing programming for youth and adults
- Consultation services to assist in program development or incident resolution
- Family Equality is a national organization that provides resources to LGBTQ parents in need of support.
- Glossary of terms specific to adoption and foster care from Family Equality.
- Map of family support groups registered with Family Equality across New York State.
- Find your nearest LGBTQ Health and Human Services provider online from this New York State LGBT Health and Human Services Network directory, maintained by The Center in New York City.
- If you are in New York City, LGBTQ-affirming providers are also listed at the NYC Comptroller’s LGBTQ Guide of Services. The directory includes different categories of service types, specific LGBTQ identities, an interactive map, and a search function.
For information on policies protecting LGBTQ people in New York State, please visit the Policies and Laws page located in the left sidebar.
If you are seeking resources on parenting an LGBTQ youth, please visit the Resources for Adult Caregivers of LGBTQ Youth page located in the left sidebar.