I urge theBoard of Social Services to  prevent state-licensed child placing agencies from discriminating based on sexual orientation of foster or adoptive parents. I am a Lesbian who raised from age 8 an emotionally damaged child whose family asked me to adopt her, since her bio-mother was mentally ill and drug addicted. The judge prohibited me  from adopting her until she requested the adoption at age 15. I provided nurture and medical care that has produced a healthy, wonderful 42 year old, clinical social worker. I know many LBGT couples who provide such urgently needed loving care. We achieve this in spite of the barriers society has erected. Think how many wholesome homes can be gained with the positive support of our state and communities.