Families Thrive, Inc.

Pride means more than visibility - it means action. 🏳️‍🌈

Through listening sessions with LGBTQ+ youth in foster care, we can learn directly from their experiences about what helps them feel , , and . Their voices continue to guide how we can strengthen foster care systems and create better outcomes for every young person!

This month, we're sharing key recommendations for building more inclusive and affirming environments for LGBTQ+ youth in care, from staff training and community partnerships to foster parent recruitment and ongoing advocacy.

Every child deserves to be seen, respected, and celebrated for who they are. Swipe through to learn how we can all help create a more affirming foster care experience. 💙

Every young person deserves a safe, affirming place to call home. ❤️‍🩹

LGBTQ+ youth are significantly overrepresented in foster care and often face additional challenges while navigating the child welfare system. From higher rates of family rejection to discrimination and harassment in care settings, these young people frequently encounter barriers that no child should have to face.

The statistics in this post highlight why affirming, supportive and families are so important. Every child deserves to be seen, valued, respected, and loved for who they are.

At Families Thrive, we believe that all children deserve the opportunity to grow up in safe, nurturing homes where they can thrive. By learning more about the experiences of + youth in foster care, we can all play a role in creating a more inclusive and supportive community.

Because every child deserves to belong! 🌈🤟

Families Thrive, Inc. is deeply saddened to announce the passing of our beloved board member and dear friend, Jesse R. Lucas.

Jesse was an exceptional individual whose generosity, talent, and unwavering commitment to adoption made a lasting impact on our organization and the families we serve. For many years, his passion for our mission was at the heart of countless successful events. 

Jesse generously shared not only his resources but also his time and expertise. His dedication to planning and coordinating our annual galas was exemplary, and his contributions helped shape many of our most memorable and impactful moments. His leadership, kindness, and steadfast support will be greatly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside him.

On behalf of the Families Thrive family, we extend our deepest condolences to Jesse’s loved ones. We are profoundly grateful for the legacy he leaves behind and the difference he made in so many lives. Jesse will remain forever in our hearts and in the continued work of Families Thrive. ❤️‍🩹

As the federal administration continues to roll back protections and support for LGBTQ+ communities, I reaffirm my commitment to standing up for and alongside LGBTQ+ New Yorkers. This Pride Month, we celebrate resilience, honor progress, and continue the fight for equality, safety, and dignity for all.

The team had a fantastic time last Friday at our annual foster parent appreciation dinner! It was a beautiful evening at the Lodge @ Victor Municipal Park, with plenty of time for dinner, games, prizes, and recognitions. ☀️

We ❤️ our foster families and all that they do!

Meet Jesika and Gunner Barnes-Rexford.

This Foster Care Awareness Month, we’re highlighting real foster parents who are opening their homes, showing up for youth, and sharing what fostering truly looks like.

Hear why they chose to become foster parents, what keeps them going, and the impact one family can make in a child’s life.

Follow along all month long to learn more about foster care, hear real stories, and see how you can make a difference.

Today, we remember and honor the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country.

Families Thrive will be closed in observance of Memorial Day. Normal business hours will resume on 5/26.