LGBTQ Foster Parents Carry Family Service of RI Banner

LGBTQ foster dads will be carrying Family Service of Rhode Island's banner in the "Illuminated Night Parade" on Saturday night, June 20 as part of Family Service of Rhode Island's outreach for LGBTQ foster parents called "We Take Pride in All Families."

The parade is a feature of RI PrideFest in Providence.

Michael Leighton and Marc Fernandes, of Providence, who are foster parents to two children, will be carrying the Family Service of Rhode Island banner.

"We are proud that Michael and Marc will be representing us and our efforts to recruit LGBTQ foster parents," said Family Service of Rhode Island CEO Margaret Holland McDuff. "We take pride in all families, and we're hoping many more Rhode Island adults will step forward to become foster parents." She noted that singles and couples may become foster parents.

"We are honored to represent Family Service of Rhode Island in the Pride parade, and we're looking forward to continuing our work with Family Service of Rhode Island in recruiting LGBTQ foster parents," said Mr. Leighton. "We're hoping to remove any stigma or confusion that may exist regarding LGBTQ foster parents."

Foster parents receive tax-free dollars to support the placement, plus free medical coverage for the child and a clothing allowance. Family Service of Rhode Island also provides support 24/7.

More information is available by contacting Greg Wright at (401) 331-1350 ext. 3305 or emailing him at [email protected]. Information about foster parenting and Family Service of Rhode Island are available at www.familyserviceri.org. More information about RI PrideFest is available at www.prideri.com.