Catholic Social Services just wanted to help foster children find a forever home, but Philadelphia told the group it had to leave its faith at the door. After a strong Supreme Court ruling, the city is paying a $2 million settlement to the group and will reinstate their foster care contract.
In June, the U.S. Supreme Court found that Philadelphia discriminated against Catholic Social Services because of its religious beliefs. Catholic Social Services believes that children deserve a mother and father and declines to place children with same-sex couples. They're absolutely right! Study after study has proven that homes without a married mother and father are less stable, which means less safe and healthy for children!
Ken Gavin, a spokesperson for the Archdiocese of Philadelphia, said the archdiocese was "grateful that our ministries can continue serving those who count on us, especially foster children in need of a loving home."
This is a tremendous victory for faith-based organizations, and for the thousands of children who have been served by Catholic Social Services.