There is an urgent need for local foster care families. Greene County Children & Youth Services currently has 66 children in care with 12 certified foster homes. A lot of these children have been placed outside of Greene County, away from their school, friends and everything familiar to them. This only adds to the anxiety that they may already be feeling, and emphasizes the instability that is already such a huge part of their lives, as they are taken away to unknown territory.
When you think of the children who are in need of foster care, what age comes to mind? Two, five, ten? Foster care is needed for children of all ages, but what about when it comes to those in their teenage years? “Absolutely!” says, Beth Booker, of Greene County Children & Youth Services. “We have a HUGE need for families who are willing to take in teens. More often than not, we have to send them to a group home facility out of the county.”
“While the need for more foster care families is at an all-time high,” says Beth, “we are extremely grateful for the families who have already opened their hearts and their homes. It’s time to celebrate all of the amazing, selfless foster parents out there.”
May is Foster Care Appreciation month. On May 16th, there will be a foster care recruitment event held at the 4-H building at the Greene County Fairgrounds. This event is an opportunity for anyone interested in learning more about becoming a foster family. Greene County foster care staff will be available to answer any questions you may have and to discuss ways that you can make a difference. All attendees will also be entered into a basket raffle.
If you have been considering opening your home to a foster child, there is no better time than now. With your patience, a stable and loving support system could make a life changing difference in a child or teens life. What could be more rewarding than that? Contact Greene County Children & Youth Services at: 724-852-5217 or visit: GCFosterCare.com for more information on how you can make a positive difference in a child’s future.