I wanted top add my voice to the new rules the Department of Social Services is considering regarding adoption. I believe that gay Virginians, whether single, partnered, or married, should be allowed to foster or adopt children. Many of our families can provide nurturing and loving homes to at risk children who need a quality family to grow up in. Many gay, bisexual, and questioning adolescents are not supported by their own families and gay foster parents can provide a supportive and stable atmosphere as kids deal with their sexuality. Gay youth have a very high suicide rate and gay foster parents and adoptive parents could stem the tide of youth suicide so that every child grows up to be a healthy, well adjusted, and self supporting adult here in Virginia. I ask that you adopt a rule that allows gay and lesbian parents to foster and adopt children in Virginia.