“I have always wanted to be a foster parent, but I believe that volunteering with Royal Family KIDS programs really influenced my path to fostering. I’m thankful that my relationship with God is strong, I am passionate about my job helping foster families, and I became a foster parent at age twenty-two.”
-Morganne Williams, Volunteer at FTC Kearney
May is National Foster Care Month, a time to recognize the important role that foster families play in the lives of children in foster care. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, there are nearly 400,000 children in foster care across the United States. These children have been removed from their homes due to abuse, neglect, or other issues, and they need safe, stable, and loving homes to help them heal and thrive.
One of the most significant challenges facing the foster care system is the shortage of foster families. There simply aren't enough families who are willing and able to provide temporary care for these vulnerable children. Fostering is a truly courageous, selfless act, and there is no denying that it can be immensely difficult.
It takes a special kind of person to be a foster parent, and the rewards are immeasurable. By providing a safe and loving home, you can make a positive difference in the life of a child who has experienced uncertainty and relational trauma while helping them realize a brighter future. Helping a child to experience trust after trauma fosters joy in the child and in the caregiver. Plus, there is an abundance of support and resources available to help you along the way.
If you're considering becoming a foster parent, there are a few things to keep in mind.
- Fostering is temporary. The goal of foster care is to reunite the child with their birth family, whenever possible. But, during the time a child is in your care, you will be responsible for meeting their needs and providing them with a stable and nurturing environment.
- You will be prepared. Becoming a foster parent requires training and preparation. Foster parents must complete a rigorous screening and training process to ensure that they are equipped to provide safe and supportive care for children in foster care. But, don't let this discourage you. The training and support you receive will help you feel confident and prepared to meet the needs of the children in your care.
- You are not alone. There is a community of foster parents, social workers, and other professionals who are dedicated to supporting you and the children in your care. By becoming a foster parent, you will join this community and have access to resources and support when you need it.
During National Foster Care Month, let's celebrate and recognize the incredible work that foster families do every day to provide a safe and loving home for children in foster care. And, let's encourage others to consider this important and life-changing path. By opening your home and heart to a child in need, you can make a profoundly positive impact on the child, their community, and ultimately, your relationship with God.
If you're ready to take the first step toward becoming a foster parent, a great place to begin is volunteering with For The Children. We provide training in Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI) and our volunteers gain valuable experience with children living in foster care.
Contact us at hello@forthechildren.org to get started!
