At Kent Youth and Family Services, we understand that the impact of federal policy changes may cause increased stress for many in our community, especially for LGBTQ+ families, families of color, and immigrant families. We want to take this moment to reaffirm our commitment to helping every family we serve achieve their goals for a better future. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, hopelessness, or anger, we are here for you. Kent Youth and Family Services is proud to provide a range of services designed to support youth and families through difficult times. Together, we can promote the healthy development of youth, children, and families in our diverse community.

In addition to the services we offer, we’d like to share some resources that may help ease the challenges of these uncertain times:

Crisis Support:

If you are in crisis or considering suicide, call Crisis Connections’ 24-Hour Crisis Line at 1-866-427-4747

Resources for Parents and Caregivers: 

• Children’s Health – Talking to Kids About Politics 

• Sesame Street – How to Talk to Kids About Tough Topics

• NPR – ‘The Talk’ – A Mom’s Advice to her Young Black Sons

• Stop Bullying – Addressing Discrimination with Kids

• Online Youth Radicalization: A Community Guide  – Southern Poverty Law Center

• Crisis Connections-Warm Line

Support for Children and Teens:

• Teen Link– A peer-to-peer support line

Support for LGBTQIA2S+ Youth: 

• The Trevor Project – Crisis Support for LGBTQ+ Youth 

• The Trevor Project – Finding Support Amid Political Uncertainty
• Trans Lifeline- Trans Lifeline’s Hotline is a peer support phone service run by trans people for our trans and questioning peers

Legal Resources for Immigrant Families and Families Affected by Deportation: 

• National Lawyers Guild– Request legal observers, find legal representation, and access ‘Know Your Rights’ training 

• Northwest Immigrant Rights Project – Legal assistance and advocacy for immigrants

• Immigrant Legal Resource Center – Red Cards (Printable ‘Know Your Rights’ cards and usage instructions)

• Washington Immigrant Solidarity Network (WAISN) – Report ICE activity and access deportation defense resources

• Latino Leadership Northwest – Assistance for families preparing for possible deportation

• National Child Traumatic Stress Network – Talking to Children About Deportation or Separation (Available in English and Spanish) 

• ACLU – Know Your Rights: Immigrant’s Rights

• King County Public Library System- Welcoming Center for immigrants, refugees and new arrivals

Self-Care Resources for Parents, Caregivers, and Staff: 

• Professional Quality of Life (ProQOL) – Burnout Monitoring Tool 

• National Institutes of Health – Emotional Wellness Toolkit

• Mental Health Disability Rights in The Workplace: A Guide For Employees

Washington State Updates: 

• Statement from Chris Reykdal, our Superintendent of Schools in WA addressing plans to withhold funds from Washington State

• Statement from Chris Reykdal, our Superintendent of Schools in WA regarding protections for immigrant students

• Washington State Governor, Bob Ferguson creates rapid response team to support children facing separation

• Washington State Office of the Attorney General’s lawsuit challenging the federal funding freeze 

• United States Senator of Washington Maria Cantwell – Latest Press Releases

We encourage families, caregivers, and staff to utilize these resources and share them with those who may need additional support. If you or someone you know is in need of mental health services, please contact us directly. If you are a family that is served in our Early Learning Program, please reach out to your Family Support Specialist for additional resources and support. Kent Youth and Family Services is here to help navigate these challenging times.