QHub

QHub provides co-designed, place-based services to LGBTIQA+ young people, up to age 25, and their families/carers. We provide mental health supports, social connection, and wellbeing initiatives. There are hubs in Geelong and Ballarat, and we provide outreach to the Surf Coast as well. The program strives to meet local needs by providing a range of affirming, accessible mental health and wellbeing support for local LGBTIQA+ young people. We also offer community capacity building and inclusion trainings.

All our services are free and all our staff are queer-identifying.

The hubs in central Geelong and Ballarat provide a drop-in space to access wrap-around support, social connection, a sense of belonging, positive peer and intergenerational role models, and educational events.

QHub is funded by the Victorian Government, delivered in partnership by Drummond Street Services, Cafs, and Wellways.

We acknowledge the Wadawurrung People as the Traditional Owners of the lands QHub operates on.
We recognise their ancient and continuing connection to the land, waters, and sky.
We pay our deep respects to their Elders, past, present, and emerging.
Sovereignty was never ceded. Always was, always will be Aboriginal Land.
We acknowledge that First Nations people have their own history and understanding of queerness that predates colonisation and continues today.

Services for Young People

Individual Counselling

QHub offers support to LGBTIQA+ community members with free counselling services for anyone up to 25 years old. These sessions can be conducted either in person or online, providing flexibility to suit your needs. These sessions are client-led and address a variety of topics, including mental health challenges, gender journeys, exploration of sexuality, family and friendship dynamics, social skills development, goal setting, and building connections with other agencies to fulfill our clients’ needs. Each session typically lasts for one hour, to ensure meaningful engagement.

If you would like more information or to book in for sessions, please contact us via the Contact Us tab.

Peer Support

QHub Peer Workers are LGBTIQA+ people with their own experiences of mental health challenges. They use their personal journeys to connect with and support LGBTIQA+ young people.

The aim of Peer Work is to build genuine, meaningful relationships based on shared experiences and knowledge. These connections are about creating space for empowerment, finding meaning in experiences, exploring identity and sharing openly about any challenges being faced. By working together, they focus on what matters most to the young person. QHub Peer Workers take a flexible approach, offering support in-person, online, and over the phone. They provide one-on-one support as well as advocacy, education, and resources to support LGBTIQA+ young people in feeling seen, supported, and affirmed in their communities.

If you would like more information or to book in for sessions, please contact us via the Contact Us tab.

Social Connection

For days, times, and more information about our drop-in groups, please visit the What’s On Geelong & Surf Coast or the What’s On Ballarat tab.

Under 12 Drop-In Group

QHub run an under 12s drop-in group fortnightly for 1 hour. We have activities like slime making, jewellery making, arts and crafts, games, and more. We have a snack break in the middle with food and drink provided by QHub.

There are usually around 6-10 young people. The main space can get noisy at times depending on the number of people and the activity. The big light is off and floor lamps are used instead. Fidgets and headphones are available.

We have ‘The Closet’ which is a space set up with free clothes for young people to take, all gender bathrooms, quiet spaces, and a TV and couch set up.

At the same time there is a facilitated parent group with tea, coffee, or a cold drink where we create a space for parents to bring in questions/concerns. These can be addressed by staff or other parents in a safe and supportive environment.

High School Age Drop-In Group

This is for LGBTIQA+ young people ages 12-17 or in high school. You are welcome to arrive and leave anytime during the drop-in timeframe. Reach out if you need support to access the space. All staff are queer-identifying and gender diverse.

Snacks and activities in an affirming space, including: queer books, free clothes, jewellery making, crafts, Nintendo Switch, games, wifi, info on services, and more.

Most days, there are not structured activities planned. Young people may use any of the games, crafts, and other resources in the space. During school holidays, we offer a planned activity each week.

QHub is a great place to hang out. Attendance is usually 8-15 young people. The main space can get noisy at times depending on the number of people and the activity. There are three breakout spaces for quieter activities and lower-sensory time. The big light is off and floor lamps are used instead. Fidgets and headphones are available.

Age 18+ Drop-In Group

This is for LGBTIQA+ community members age 18+. You are welcome to arrive and leave anytime during the drop-in timeframe. Reach out if you need support to access the space. All staff are queer-identifying and gender diverse.

Snacks and activities in an affirming space, including: queer books, free clothes, jewellery making, crafts, Nintendo Switch, games, wifi, info on services, and more.

Each week, there is an activity planned. You may use any of the games, crafts, and other resources in the space.

QHub is a great place to hang out. There are three breakout spaces for quieter activities and lower-sensory time. The big light is off and floor lamps are used instead. Fidgets and headphones are available.

Out Social

Out Social is a social group for LGBTIQA+ adults over 18. The group meets every two weeks, with hangouts both at QHub and around the community, giving people the chance to connect with others who may share similar experiences. There is a mix of group chats and activities, and joining in is always optional. Wherever possible, there are different ways to participate, aiming to ensure everyone feels comfortable and included.

To register for Out Social, please send us a message via the Contact Us tab.

Services for Parents

At QHub, we know that family acceptance and support impacts hugely on young people’s sense of self. In fact, studies show that family support is the number one protective factor for LGBTIQA+ young people experiencing suicidal ideation.

For these reasons, we work within a whole of family model of care.

We work with families of young people who are LGBTIQA+ identifying, up to 25 years of age, who are at any stage of their journey.

QHub provides:

  • Social/education group for parents of young people up to 12 years
  • Counselling for parents/adult family members/supports
  • Whole of family counselling
  • Resources and education

If you would like more information or to book in for sessions, please contact us via the Contact Us tab.

Services for the Community

LGBTIQA+ Inclusion Training

QHub provides free LGBTIQA+ inclusion trainings for local organisations and schools. These capacity building workshops focus on how to best meet the needs of clients or students. Topics include inclusive language, pronouns, best practices in your setting, and more. Sessions are tailored to your needs and allow time for questions and reflection. Contact us to discuss how we can develop a training program that suits your workplace or school.

Geelong LGBTIQA+ Service Providers Network

QHub facilitates this network in Geelong. If you or your workplace provides services to LGBTIQA+ folks, please consider joining this professional network. We meet monthly at various locations around Geelong to discuss best practices and trends, learn about local services, and support each other through networking.

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  • Our drop-in schedule for Term 2 has something for each age group. For more specific info about each group, please see our other posts or contact us.

    LGBTIQA+ young people under age 12: Mondays, fortnightly starting May 5, 4pm-5pm. Parents/carers are invited to stay and chat with each other and our Child & Family Practitioner.

    LGBTIQA+ people age 18+: Wednesdays, fortnightly starting April 30, 4:30-6:30pm.

    LGBTIQA+ people age 12-17: Thursdays each week of term, 3pm-5:30pm.

  • QHub has a drop-in session for each age group in the April school holidays.

    For LGBTIQA+ young people under age 12, our drop-in group is on Tuesday, April 15th, 3pm-5pm. We will be making slime, playing Just Dance, and more. Parents are invited to stay and chat with each other and QHub staff.

    For LGBTIQA+ young people ages 12-17, our drop-in group is on Thursday, April 17th, 2pm-5pm. We will be doing queer karaoke 2pm-3pm, and then 3pm-5pm is free time and pizza.

    For LGBTIQA+ folks age 18+, our drop-in group is on Wednesday, April 16th, 4:30pm-6:30pm. We will be doing painting and card games.

    Message us with any questions.

  • Out Social is a facilitated social connection program with planned activities each session. Activities include peer discussions and outings.

    Fortnightly on Wednesdays during school terms.
    4:30pm - 6:30pm
    LGBTIQA+ folks age 18+

    There is a one-time registration required. After registering, participants will receive info about upcoming sessions.

    To register or for more info, email us at qhub@ds.org.au

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  • Our drop-in schedule for Term 1 has something for each age group. For more specific info about each group, please see our other posts or contact us.

    LGBTIQA+ young people under age 12: Mondays, fortnightly starting February 10, 4pm-5pm. Parents/carers are invited to stay and chat with each other and our Child & Family Practitioner.

    LGBTIQA+ people age 18+: Wednesdays, fortnightly starting February 5, 4:30pm-6:30pm.

    LGBTIQA+ young people age 12-17: Thursdays each week of term, 3pm-5:30pm.

  • QHub is hosting a Dungeons & Dragons campaign for LGBTIQA+ folks ages 12-17 in the January school holidays.

    There are 4 sessions. Attend as many as you like!
    January 9, 10, 23, 24. Each session is 11am - 2pm.

    This is facilitated by an experienced queer Game Master. No prior experience, dice, or books needed.

    Book your spot at the link in our bio. Limited to 8 players. Message us with any questions.

  • Dungeons & Dragons is back at QHub this December!

    QHub is hosting a DnD campaign for LGBTIQA+ people ages 18-30.

    This includes 4 sessions:
    - Friday, December 6
    - Wednesday, December 11
    - Friday, December 13
    - Friday, December 20
    4pm - 7pm for each session.

    Priority is given to players who can attend most of the sessions and those not currently participating in an organised DnD group.

    Limited to 8 players. No prior experience, books, or dice needed.

    This is facilitated by an experienced queer Game Master.

    To book in your free spot and get more info, visit the link in our bio.

  • QHub is hosting a free Rainbow safeTALK Suicide Prevention Training. @mentalhealthcoachaus will be providing this important skills workshop.

    What is covered:
    - how to spot warning signs
    - when you should be concerned about someone
    - myths and misunderstandings
    - how to talk to someone who is having thoughts of suicide
    - how to connect them to professionals and keep them safe

    Who is eligible to attend:
    - LGBTIQA+ young people ages 16-25
    - People who work with LGBTIQA+ young people
    - Family members & friends of LGBTIQA+ young people

    Wednesday, November 20th, 10am-2pm

    To book your free spot, visit the link in our bio.

  • QHub is hosting a Talking Sexual Health Workshop. There are two dates to choose from - Tuesday, May 13 or Monday, June 30. Both workshops will be held at QHub, 6pm-8pm.

    These workshops will be facilitated by expert educators from Sexual Health Victoria who are part of the LGBTIQA+ community. @sexualhealthvictoria

    - Open to LGBTIQA+ folks age 18+.

    - The workshop is free. You must register to attend at the link in our bio.

    - Topics include: defining sexual health, understanding healthy relationships, and exploring legal and ethical consent, including affirmative consent legislation.

    - There will be a QHub Peer Support Worker present to provide support and debriefing to participants as needed.

    - Food will be provided.

  • Exciting news!

    We are proud to announce that QHub is a finalist for the GLOBE Victorian Pride Awards in the Preventing Social Isolation category.

    QHub is committed to creating inclusive, affirming spaces where LGBTIQA+ young people and their families can feel connected, supported, and seen, especially in regional areas where services are limited and isolation can be deeply felt.

    Being nominated in this category affirms everything QHub stands for: connection, community, and the belief that no LGBTIQA+ young person or their family should feel like they have to face things alone.

  • Building works are currently happening in the QHub space. This was unexpected.

    Unfortunately, this will affect drop-in groups and events for a short time. Please view our Stories for updated info about group locations.

    Sorry for the inconvenience.

  • Dungeons & Dragons is back at QHub in February and March!

    This campaign is for LGBTIQA+ people ages 18-30.

    There are 4 sessions on Mondays, 5:30pm-8:30pm.
    - February 17
    - February 24
    - March 3
    - March 17

    Limited to 7 players. No prior experience, books, or dice needed.

    This is facilitated by an experienced queer Game Master.

    To book in your free spot and get more info, visit the link in our bio.

  • We know things can feel heavy at the beginning of the year.

    If you need someone to talk to, please reach out for free peer support or counselling through QHub (folks up to age 25) or Qspace (any age).

    Get in touch by calling 03 9663 6733 or emailing qhub@ds.org.au with your name and number, and we will get back to you.

  • QHub is hosting a Surf Coast Rainbow Youth Event!
    This is open to LGBTIQA+ young people ages 12-25 and allies, Friday December 13th, 5pm-7pm. Located at the Torquay Youth Space inside the Kurrambee Myaring Community Centre.
    Free event. Activities include crafts, karaoke, food, and fun!
    Hope to see you there 🏳️‍🌈🏳️‍⚧️

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  • The unexpected building works at QHub are complete! Our drop-in groups are back to usual just in time for our school holidays program.

    Thank you for your patience and flexibility. And thank you to the Geelong Library and The Nest Youth Hub for hosting us.

    As always, if you would like to access free peer support (up to age 25) or counselling (any age), please get in touch via email and we will get back to you.
    QHub@ds.org.au

  • March with the QHub crew at the ChillOut Festival!

    The ChillOut Festival Parade is on Sunday, March 9th at 11am.
    Meet up with the QHub team at 10:30am at the Daylesford Primary School.

    Young people, families, allies all welcome to join!

    ChillOut is a fun LGBTIQA+ festival celebrating regional communities. Message us with any questions.

  • As an organisation committed to social justice, we recognise the historical and ongoing harms stemming from colonisation. We commit to standing up against the ongoing racism in this country and oppose January 26 being a day of celebration. We have a commitment to reconciliation and support Treaty and truth-telling processes.

    QHub staff showed our solidarity with First Nations people today by attending local events hosted by @wathaurong and @wadawurrung and connecting with Country.

    Photo by @clothingthegap

    #InvasionDay #AlwaysWasAlwaysWillBe

  • Calling queer creators, emerging artists, inspired storytellers. The Audio Archive needs your help; create a story and bring it to life. This is a new kind of workshop, where writing and sound design come together, bringing an immersive audio experience front and center.

    Sound interesting? Email to register: rayne_audio_archive@outlook.com

    Limited spots available. Open to LGBTIQA+ folks age 18+. @audio_archive_

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  • Our drop-in schedule for Term 4 has something for each age group. For more specific info about each group, please see our other posts or contact us.

    LGBTIQA+ young people under age 12: Mondays, fortnightly starting week 1 of term, 4pm-5pm. Parents/carers are invited to stay and chat with each other and our Child & Family Practitioner.

    LGBTIQA+ people age 18+: Wednesdays, fortnightly starting October 16, 12pm-2pm.

    LGBTIQA+ young people age 12-17: Thursdays each week of term, 3pm-5:30pm.

    GASP is held at QHub on Tuesdays, 3:30-5:30pm. This is for LGBTIQA+ young people ages 12-25. Email Titit for more info: titit.nyak@geelongcity.vic.gov.au

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  • The countdown is on to IDAHOBIT on May 17! IDAHOBIT is the International Day Against LGBTIQA+ Discrimination. It is a time to reflect on the hard fought for achievements of the LGBTIQA+ community, whilst acknowledging there is still work to be done to achieve equality and safety for queer people. Check out some of the things happening at QHub and in the Ballarat community to celebrate IDAHOBIT, and send us a DM if you have any questions.

  • We are proud to announce that QHub is a finalist for the GLOBE Victorian Pride Awards in the Preventing Social Isolation category. 

    QHub is committed to creating inclusive, affirming spaces where LGBTIQA+ young people and their families can feel connected, supported, and seen, especially in regional areas where services are limited and isolation can be deeply felt.

    Being nominated in this category affirms everything QHub stands for: connection, community, and the belief that no LGBTIQA+ young person or their family should feel like they have to face things alone.

  • Wanna be part of something important? Ballarat's approach to preventing gender based violence includes hearing directly from young people!
    Participate in a 1-2 hour conversation on April 17th at 12pm, and receive a gift card for your time!

    To secure your spot contact Jacinta or Tim from @ballaratcommunityhealth on the emails below! 👇
    📧 jacintaw@bchc.org.au 📧 timh@bchc.org.au

  • Reach out to our mates @ballaratyouthservices if you are keen on this self-expression workshop at @tbhstudio.au

  • Who's excited for Chillout in Daylesford this weekend?! We sure are! Come and find us at the Youth Muster on Saturday or the Carnival on Sunday 🏳️‍🌈 🏳️‍⚧️

  • QHub Peer Workers are LGBTIQA+ people with their own experiences of mental health challenges. They use their personal journeys to connect with and support LGBTIQA+ young people.
    The aim of Peer Work is to build genuine, meaningful relationships based on shared experiences and knowledge. These connections are about creating space for empowerment, finding meaning in experiences, exploring identity, and sharing openly about any challenges being faced. By working together, they focus on what matters most to a young person.
    Are you or someone you know interested in engaging with a Peer Support Worker? 
    Send us an email at qhub@ds.org.au

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  • QHub Ballaarat has some cool stuff happening over January. All activities are FREE and have a focus on getting out and about this summer. Ok... maybe not the Mario Cart Tournament. But it is back by popular demand!
    Shoot us an email or DM for more info or to register.

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  • Happy International Pronouns Day! All pronouns are valid and respected here at QHub and we have quite the badge collection for you to choose from.

  • Qhub has free counselling for LGBTIQA+ young people and their families (of origin and chosen family). Reach out via phone or email if you would like to book in a chat to learn more.

  • 🏳️‍⚧️ So excited by these awesome events in Ballarat for Transgender Awareness Week by City of Ballarat and Transgender Victoria. The Affirmation Station will have a number of workshops so check it out at ballaratpride.au/affirmation-station 🏳️‍⚧️

  • Drop in is unfortunately cancelled tomorrow 20/08/2024. Staff are unwell but will be back next week. Enjoy your week and see you then. 🙂

  • We are very sorry to say that we are postponing our Community Event until spring time. Covid has made its way into our organisation and in the interest of public safety, we will come back when it's warmer and the light lasts longer.
    Thanks to everyone who had ordered a ticket. We will be sure to give a bunch of notice when we have our new date locked in.
    Keep your eyes on our socials or the Ballarat Pride Month booklet for our smaller events that will still be going ahead.
    Thanks for the understanding,
    The QHub Team

  • The sun was shining brightly yesterday as QHub attended a very special ‘Deadly Aspirations Day’ for young local First Nations mob at Federation Uni in Ballaarat / Wadawurrung Country.
    So many important connections re-established and made, but mostly so humbling to witness the young folk holding proud with Culture and Country ❤️💛🖤💚💙🤍

  • Don't know about you, but we can't wait for the school holidays! We are planning some fun activities and will have more information up soon. For now, put these days and times in the diary. ✨🎉📓

  • If you are aged 12 to 25 headspace Ballarat are super keen to get your thoughts on sport and physical activity. Scan the QR code above to share your experiences and opinions.

  • QHub is stoked to be partnering with Tiny Pride, Y Ballarat and the Ballarat Aquatic & Lifestyle Centre to deliver The Biggest Games Day Ever!

    This event was based on feedback that queer young people just wanted to hang out & that rainbow families needed low key and free events that they could attend.

    It is about communities coming together in a space where there is no racism, homophobia, transphobia, sexism or ableism. 
    The Biggest Games Day Ever will hold space for LGBTIQA+ young people who are 18 years old & under & their families, as well as LGBTIQA+ people with young children.

    When: Sunday 30 March 2025

    Time: 11:00 am to 3:00 pm

    Where: The Eureka Pool at 102 Stawell St S, Ballarat East VIC 3350

    All of the lifeguards & staff are ready to be of assistance and have been trained in inclusion by Tiny Pride.

    When you arrive on the day, look for the Rainbow Zone to the right as you check your names off and head through the entry.  You won't be able to miss the colour and we hope you come and have a really relaxed day with us. The space will have a BBQ, outdoor games & a silent disco. There'll be bean bags & fidgets & you can come & go from the Rainbow Zone as you wish. The complex has a number of heated pools &lots of other activities that you can do while you are there.

    This event is FREE to attend, but you must register. Head to https://forms.office.com/r/vNdBhVFzLj

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  • Check out our awesome collab with The Mental Health Coach! This FREE suicide prevention skills training workshop is for LGBTIQA+ young peoplr 16+ & their allies including friends, siblings, parents or other adults that engage with queer young people such as teachers, coaches, workers & community leaders. To register, head to the URL above or send us a DM.

  • We are really excited to partner with The Mental Health Coach to deliver Rainbow SafeTALK in Ballaarat. This FREE suicide prevention skills workshop is for LGBTIQA+ young people and their allies, including friends, siblings, parents or other adults who engage with queer young people such as teachers, workers and community leaders. Places are limited. Please send plus a DM if you have any questions and head to the URL above to register.

  • The QHub Team are taking a brief break this summer. If you need support in our absence, please reach out to those you trust or services such as QLife [via Web Chat or 1800 184 527] or Kids Helpline [1800 55 1800].
    Take care.

  • What a fantastic time we had at our QHub Ballarat Community Day, alongside the Commissioner for LGBTIQA+Communities, Joe Ball. We had heartfelt speeches, a tonne of community support, an excellent BBQ-Crew, awesome tunes and even an impromptu Nutbush!
    Thanks to everyone who came along. It was wonderful to celebrate QHub with you.

    @viccommissionerlgbtiq @qhubgeelong @karndorr @tinyprideorg @youth_yballarat @headspaceballarat @ballaratcommunityhealth @btgdcss @cityofballaratpride @lance_tv_ballarat @dj_salinger @queerspace_drummondstreet @drummond_street_services @cafs_ballarat @wellwaysau

  • Happy Trans Awareness Week! In celebration of trans pride, we will be working on a collaborative project with other local organisations to increase visibility and allyship. Stay tuned...

  • QHub are hanging out with Cafs and Thread Together teamies at Ballarat 4 Mental Health at Lake Esmond. We'll be here till 2.30... come down, say hi and grab some food, info and sunshine 🌞
    @cafs_ballarat
    @thread_together

  • Bi Day of Visibility is coming up on September 23rd and we have partnered with @cityofballaratpride @the_y_ballarat and @centre.for.multicultural.youth to have a pie making workshop. There will be guest speaker @fairywrencounselling talking all things bi/pan. Register via the QR code or email qhub@ds.org.au for more info. 🥧

  • Today is International Non-Binary People's Day.
    Being nonbinary means you might identify as both male and female, neither gender, or somewhere in between. There is no one way to be nonbinary and your gender identity and expression can be fluid and ever changing or remain the same.
    If you want more information, have a chat with out team. Have a great day folks!

  • #QuitWithPride highlights that quitting can look different for everyone. At every stage of your quitting journey, Quitline is available, offering personalised, culturally sensitive and accessible support to help people break free from smoking, or vaping.
    www.quit.org.au/quitwithpride

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  • We're at Fed Fest at Federation University [Mt Helen] til 2pm today. Come and say 'hi' 👋

  • Thank you to @karndorr @tinyprideorg & @transdotau for holding such a beautiful & empowering space to honour Transgender Day of Rememberance yesterday. With healing smoke and powerful words we came together to remember and rally.

  • Here it is, folks! QHub Ballaraat's Term 4 schedule! Drop us an email at qhub@ds.org.au for more info or to ask questions.

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  • Come celebrate Wear It Purple Day next Friday at QHub! We will tie-dye tshirts, play pride trivia and eat some afternoon tea. Register at the humanitix link 🟣👕🥪🟣

  • This week is NAIDOC Week. We would like to pay our respects to the Wadawurrung people whose land we operate on.
    This week we will be learning about First Nation's culture in our school holiday program. You will also see us at the BADAC community day and marching in Naarm (also known as Melbourne) on Friday for the NAIDOC March.
    Hope to see you all at some of these fantastic events and keep your eyes out for other special events through community.

  • Hiya friends 💝
    Of course today we celebrate IDAHOBIT! 🌈
    May 17 marks the anniversary of the removal of homosexuality from the (then) recognised list of diseases by the World of Health Organisation (WHO).

    Today and every day we stand up against hate and discrimination towards LGBTIQA+ people.

    Remember, your identity is unique, valid and valuable! Don’t let anyone dull your sparkle or make you feel like you don’t belong. You are part of a vibrant and powerful community that’s full of love, support, and acceptance. Keep being your amazing selves and know that you’re not alone.

    #IDAHOBIT #QueerAndProud #YouAreLoved

  • Happy Mum’s Day to all the incredible mums, mother figures, and caregivers out there.

    Today and every day, we celebrate you and the love, support, and acceptance you bring to our lives. Whether you’re a biological mum, adoptive mum, foster mum, or a mum figure who’s made a difference in someone’s life, we see you and appreciate you.

    Let’s honor the queer mums who have paved the way for us, and let’s uplift and support one another as we build our own families and communities.

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