D.A. Blodgett-St. John's

DABSJ seeks to build awareness of the need for safe and affirming homes for LGBTQ+ youth in foster care (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

By WKTV Staff

During Pride Month, D.A. Blodgett – St. John’s (DABSJ) seeks to build awareness of the need for safe and affirming homes for LGBTQ+ youth in foster care.

The organization is also actively seeking foster parents from the LGBTQ+ community. With over a century in service to children and families, DABSJ is dedicated to providing safe, affirming, and loving homes for all youth. Including those from marginalized communities.

LGBTQ+ youth face additional challenges

According to the Human Rights Campaign, 30% of youth in foster care identify as LGBTQ+. This is a proportion much larger than identified in the general population.

These young people often face additional challenges and disparities in their care experiences, stemming from trauma related to abuse, neglect, and many times rejection due to their sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression.

Love and acceptance can make a difference in the life of our youth (Courtesy, pxhere.com)

“LGBTQ+ youth in foster care need safe and loving homes just as all children do,” said DABSJ Chief Programs Officer Joel Bell. “During Pride Month, we want to especially reach out to those who might join us in providing that crucial support for youth in care. Your love and acceptance can make all the difference in their lives.”

Inclusive approach = thriving youth

As DABSJ continues to innovate and adapt to meet the evolving needs of children and families, the organization recognizes the unique and vital role that LGBTQ+ foster parents can play. By opening their hearts and homes, these foster parents can offer a nurturing environment where youth in care can thrive.

“To some, there is a discussion of whether to allow foster parents from the LGBTQ+ community. For DABSJ, we are actively seeking foster parents from the LGBTQ+ community,” said Bell.

“We are looking to do what is best for each child as they heal from trauma, abuse, or neglect. Having an inclusive approach is key to that.”

For more information on how to become a foster parent with DABSJ, and to learn about the support and resources available, please visit www.dabsj.org or email fosterparentinfo@dabsj.org to take the first step.

Aerial view of ILP home (Courtesy, DABSJ)

By WKTV Staff

deborah@wktv.org

Mary Muliett, DABSJ President and CEO (Courtesy, DABSJ)

Leading provider of child welfare and human services in West Michigan, D.A. Blodgett – St. John’s (DABSJ), has launched a distinctive Independent Living Plus (ILP) program. ILP is a transformative initiative designed specifically for youth aging out of foster care.

This program, situated on the DABSJ campus, aims to provide a safety net and specialized assistance to address the youth’s unique challenges.

“Youth aging out of foster care without a guardian or adoptive parent are embarking on adulthood without the supportive network many of us are fortunate to have had,” said Mary Muliett, DABSJ President and CEO. “It’s a vulnerable position that requires specialized support, and that’s exactly what our Independent Living Plus program aims to provide.”

Research has consistently shown that youth aging out of foster care face heightened risks, including homelessness, human trafficking, and incarceration. This is an alarming phenomenon known as the foster-care-to-prison pipeline.

Breaking the cycle

With the ILP program, DABSJ seeks to break the cycles put forth by the system and provide a supportive bridge into adulthood.

“We want the youth to be independent but not alone,” said Muliett. “By living in a home right here on the DABSJ campus, youth can easily connect with the supports they need, whether it’s a coach helping them pursue college and careers, peers they can connect and build community with, or therapy and psychiatric care.

“They get to develop their goals and dreams – so it’s care provided for them, not for them.”

Rewriting futures

ILP residents will have access to on-site coaching, therapy, medical/psychiatric support, and the full amenities on the DABSJ campus.

The program is open to youth ages 16-19. Residents must be referred to the program by a Michigan Department of Health and Human Services or agency foster care case worker.

To begin, the program will operate out of one home serving eight residents. It will then expand on campus.

“We have recognized the need for a specialized Independent Living Plus program for a considerable time,” Muliett said. “All too often, these youth risk falling through the cracks.

“Our program is a beacon of hope, providing a safety net and a circle of support to ensure they survive and thrive as they transition into adulthood. This is more than just a program; it’s a commitment to allowing youth to rewrite their futures.”

To learn more about DABSJ’s Independent Living Plus program and access referral information, click here.

About D.A. Blodgett – St. John’s

D.A. Blodgett – St. John’s is a nonprofit that provides a full continuum of care for children and families, including foster care, adoption, family preservation, behavioral health, child psychiatry, and residential programs. DABSJ impacts more than 14,000 lives annually with safety, advocacy, and support.

Learn more at dabsj.org.