Recently we invited parents to come tell us whether or not they thought a Hatch program for children ages 12 and younger would be viable in Houston. The overwhelming response by parents and children was YES.

Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Intersex, Queer & Questioning children and their parents and legal guardians are welcome to come to the twice-monthly meetings, beginning this Sunday, from 3 – 5 p.m.

Hatch Youth Services Specialist Deb Murphy says she’s had parents asking for this group for awhile now, “We’re making a lot of changes here at The Montrose Center, so now is a good time to give this a try.” She quickly adds that even if it doesn’t take hold, our mission is to fill the gaps in services to LGBTIQA persons of all ages, and more and more we are hearing from the parents of children who are not yet old enough to attend Hatch. Hatch meets Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays for youth ages 13-20.

Murphy explains that a parent or legal guardian must be present the whole time. “We’re very lucky to have PFLAG just down the hall from us, so while we work with the children, the adults and other parents can support eachother.”

The 12 and younger group meets the second and fourth Sunday of each month in Room 101 at The Montrose Center.