Texas Church Gives Kids Rejected By Parents "Free MomHugs" At Pride Parade

Aug 31, 2018 by apost team

Growing up is hard, especially for kids struggling with their identities. "Coming out" means risking important relationships. They can start to feel lonely and abandoned.

That's where this group of moms came in.

Pride parades are events where the LGBTQ community celebrate each other. These moms gave out "Free Hugs" to make it even more welcoming. Even dads and grandparents joined in! They all want kids to feel safe and loved.

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Jen Hatmaker, who's an author and blogger, posted about the experience on Instagram. She described how meaningful it was for everyone. Kids came up to them during the whole parade. Many of them cried. Some of the kids had stopped getting hugs from their parents after coming out. They had been rejected for so long, but not here!

There were also several clergy members who attended the parade. They began offering free hugs, too. This was especially important because churches haven't always been accepting of the LGBTQ community. These "Pastor Hugs" reminded the kids that they are loved and important, no matter what.

Jen shared a picture of herself that was taken after the event. Her face is covered in glitter and sweat. Her eyes are full of happy tears. She's wearing a huge smile. And she's positive that all the people she hugged feel the exact same way.

There is now a nonprofit called the Free Mom Hugs Organization. Their mission is to spread that same joy to all members of the LGBTQ community. Free Mom Hugs works to empower everyone to be themselves. This group was behind the hugs at Austin Pride. They have appeared at other pride festivals as well.

Imagine what the world would be like if we all had a little more love to go around. A smile to a stranger, or even a hug, can go a long way. Show this article to your friends and family to put a smile on their face!