"That’s commonly known," she said. "So it is important and to the advantage of a child to be placed in a home with a husband and wife family, a man and a woman, so that the child can experience both a father and a mother, and their love," McCarrick said.

"New York State law is clear," said Children and Family Services spokeswoman Monica Mahaffey. "Discrimination of any kind is illegal and in this case OCFS will vigorously enforce the laws designed to protect the rights of children and same sex couples.

"In New York State, we welcome all families who are ready to provide loving and nurturing homes to foster or adoptive children. There is no place for providers that choose not to follow the law," she said.

Walczyk said foster parents showed a range of emotions when they learned the news Thursday.

"A wide range of emotions were expressed during the meeting with the parents, ranging from people understanding the position we had to take and being supportive of us standing by our principles," he said. "There was a lot of sadness expressed because, first and foremost, they’re going to very strongly miss a very dedicated, compassionate staff at Catholic Charities."