Understanding the foster care system and how you can help children in need, outside of providing financial support, can be complex. Not sure what it all means? We break it down for you.
Who are the children in foster care?
Children in foster care were removed from their families because of abuse, neglect, or abandonment. The child might live temporarily with extended family, a foster family or in a group home while social workers try to help the birth family. If the family’s problems cannot be resolved, the agency that has custody of the child goes to court to legally terminate parental rights. Those most in need of homes are children over the age of 8 and sibling groups.
What is the difference between foster care and adoption?
Foster care is the temporary care of a child whose goal is to return to the home. Foster parents must be willing to support a foster child’s ongoing contact with their biological parents and cooperate with the agency’s efforts to reunite them with their families. The foster parent’s direct involvement with the birth family is determined on an individual basis.
If reunification with their families is not possible, the foster parent is given the choice of proceeding with adoption. Otherwise, the foster parent will help prepare the child for their permanent home through adoption with another family.
What is respite care?
Respite care providers keep a foster child for a designated amount of time so foster parents can have a break.
What is the next step?
If you are interested in any of these options or are undecided, start with registering for our information meetings held the first Tuesday of every month at 5:45 p.m. at St. Joseph Children’s Home (2823 Frankfort Avenue). No commitment is needed, but we would love to see you!
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