A new Red Deer support group for family and friends of LGBTQ youth will hold its first meeting on Feb. 4.
It will mark the 90th chapter of Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) Canada.
“It’s been a long time coming. I’ve been a high school counsellor and I’ve worked with youth and there is very minimal resources for youth, never mind adults,” said spokesperson Tania Diletzoy on Wednesday.
“There’s a lot of misinformation out there about sexual orientation and gender identity. It’s just the next step in providing support and information for our parents and ultimately supporting our youth.”
PFLAG is a grassroots organization that deals with sexual and gender minority issues and is designed to provide support, education and resources to parents, guardians, caregivers, friends and loved ones age 18 and up.
Diletzoy said the idea to create a Red Deer PFLAG chapter came from local youth who saw a need for better understanding among adults.
She said just like youth, the adults in their lives may need support when a family member identifies as LGBTQ (lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, transgender, questioning). It can be an emotional time and PFLAG provides a safe place for people to come together and connect.
The support group is free to attend and confidential. PFLAG Canada Red Deer Chapter meets on the first Thursday of each month, from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m., in room 2601 at Red Deer College. For more information visit www.pflagcanada.ca or contact Diletzoy toll free at 1-888-530-6777, extension 562 or e-mail reddeerab@pflagcanada.ca
szielinski@www.reddeeradvocate.com