Honoring National Foster Care Month
May is National Foster Care Month, a time to recognize the dedication of foster parents and caregivers and raise awareness about the challenges faced by children and youth in foster care. As many of you already know, over 365,000 children and youth are currently in foster care across the United States. Each of these individuals has a unique story and journey, but they all share the need for stability, love, and nurturing relationships.
One particularly concerning statistic is that approximately 18,500 youth “age out” of foster care each year without the support of a permanent family. This means that as they reach adulthood, they are left to navigate the challenges of independence without the safety net of a loving and supportive family environment. This transition can be daunting and can impact their ability to lead their best lives.
Even more alarming is the fact that in 2021, 77 percent of eligible youth in foster care, aged 14–21 years old, left care without receiving the federally funded services necessary to prepare them for adulthood and independent living. This includes vital resources such as education and employment assistance, housing support, and life skills training. Without access to these supports, youth aging out of foster care are at a higher risk of experiencing homelessness, unemployment, and involvement with the criminal justice system.
In the work that we do, we want to recognize the work that foster parents, caregivers, advocates, and helping professionals do for children and youth in foster care.
Foster parents:
- Play a crucial role in providing safety, stability, and support to children and youth in foster care. By offering a loving and nurturing home environment, you can help create a sense of security and belonging.
- Advocate for the resources and support services that youth in foster care need to thrive. This may include educational support, access to mental health services, and assistance with transitioning to independent living.
- Provide positive relationships with the youth in your care and help them develop connections with supportive adults in their lives. Building a strong support network can make a significant difference in their transition to adulthood.
- Encourage and empower youth to take an active role in their futures. Help them set goals, develop life skills, and access resources that will support their journey to independence.
- Stay informed about policies and initiatives aimed at supporting youth in foster care, and advocate for positive change within the system.
As we observe National Foster Care Month, let us recommit ourselves to supporting children and youth in foster care and ensuring that every individual has the opportunity to reach their full potential and thousands of self-sacrificing foster parents who take 24/7 responsibility to help children and youth in their homes. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of these young people and provide them with the foundation they need for a bright and successful future.
