To Our Ryther Community, 
 

We recognize that this may be a particularly difficult time for many in our community, especially for LGBTQ+ families, families of color, and immigrant families. The impact of federal policy changes and political uncertainty can create fear, anxiety, and distress. At Ryther, we want to acknowledge these challenges and reaffirm our unwavering commitment to serving all children, youth, and families with respect, dignity, and privacy. 
 

If your family is struggling with stress, anxiety, or other mental health challenges during this time, please know that we are here to help. You are not alone. In addition to our services, we want to share resources that may be helpful for families, caregivers, and staff navigating these uncertain times: 
 

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Resources for Parents and Caregivers: 

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• Talking to Kids About Politics – Children’s Health 

• Parenting Under Political Uncertainty – TIME 

• Educational Podcasts for Kids – NPR Code Switch 

• ‘The Talk’ – A Black Mother’s Reflection on Preparing Her Sons – NPR 

• Addressing Discrimination with Kids 

• Online Youth Radicalization: A Community Guide 

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LGBTQIA+ Support: 

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• Welcome Home - Gay City: Seattle's LGBTQ Center 

• PFLAG Seattle – Support for LGBTQ+ people and their families 

• The Trevor Project – Crisis support for LGBTQ+ youth. In times of political uncertainty, their services are in high demand. If you know an LGBTQ+ youth who may be struggling, please share this resource. 

• Seattle LGBTQ+ Center – Offers youth drop-in hours, a Discord server, and events to help reduce feelings of isolation. 

• Finding Support in Political Uncertainty – The Trevor Project 

 

 

Legal Resources for Immigrant Families and Deportation Support: 

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• National Lawyers Guild – Seattle Chapter – Request legal observers, find legal representation, and access Know Your Rights training. 

• Northwest Immigrant Rights Project – Legal assistance and advocacy for immigrants. 

• Red Cards (Know Your Rights) – Immigrant Legal Resource Center – Printable Know Your Rights cards and usage instructions. 

• Washington Immigrant Solidarity Network (WAISN) – Report ICE activity and access deportation defense resources. 

• Latino Leadership Northwest – Assistance for families making plans around possible deportation. 

• Talking to Children About Deportation or Separation (NCTSN) (Available in English and Spanish) 

 

 

Self-Care for Parents, Caregivers, and Staff: 

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• Professional Quality of Life (ProQOL) Burnout Monitoring Tool 

• Self-Care Plan – ARC 

• Well-being Practices and Gentle Reminders for Times of Stress 

 

 

What’s being done in WA: 

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• Statement from Chris Reykdal, our Superintendent of Schools in WA addressing the federal funding freeze this week. There is also a statement from him regarding ICE in schools on the same site.  

• From the governor Bob Ferguson about the rapid response team created to support children whose parents are deported.  

• WA is also part of a lawsuit challenging the federal funding freeze 

• Press Releases | News | U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell of Washington 

 

 

We encourage families, caregivers, and staff to utilize these resources and share them with those who may need support. If you or someone you know needs mental health assistance, please reach out. Ryther is here to help navigate these challenges together.