Awareness
MAY is NATIONAL
FOSTER CARE Month
F
oster care and adoption are virtually inseparable
topics. The stories we find in the media about
foster care are often happy tales of children
finding their “forever homes.” While those
accounts are uplifting, the fact is that adoption
from foster care is rare.
MYTH: All children in foster care will one day be adopted
Imagine being seven years old when, suddenly, police show
up at your door and take you away. In the chaos, you are only
able to gather a few belongings to take with you. Your world
is turned upside-down. Thousands of local children, who have
been abused or neglected, have had to endure this traumatizing
experience.
Thankfully, thousands of individuals step up each year to volunteer
with Voices for Children as Court Appointed Special Advocates
(CASAs). They work to ensure children’s needs are met, with the
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ultimate goal of finding a forever home. Research has shown that
a child with a CASA is more likely to find a safe, permanent home,
and substantially less likely to spend time in long-term foster care.
Adoption from foster care is rare for children older than age 7,
and many stay in foster care until adulthood.
Each May, organizations across the country celebrate National
Foster Care Month. It is a time to raise awareness about foster care
and acknowledge the individuals, families, and communities who
support foster youth. Honor the dedication of CASA volunteers
this month by making a contribution at www.speakupnow.org
or by attending one of VFC’s upcoming events.
Wine Women & Shoes | Saturday, May 12
Be there. Be fabulous. Be giving!
More at www.speakupnow.org/WWS.