May in National Foster Care Month. When children are not able to safely stay in their own homes and they don’t have a relative who can care for them, they often are taken into state custody. Foster parents provide supportive and nurturing homes where those children’s emotional, physical and social needs can be met.
A foster parent may care for a child only until they are able to be reunified with their birth family. For children who do not have the option of being reunited with their family, their foster family may be the next best option. In many cases, foster parents adopt children who are in their care.
Children in foster care have experienced great loss and trauma and need someone who is willing to walk with them through their pain to help them heal. Undoubtedly, being a foster parent requires a great deal of patience and sacrifice. It is also very rewarding. The Smith family from Lawrenceburg, TN is a great example of how foster parents can have a positive impact on children’s lives. Watch their story below.
Currently, Tennessee foster care agencies are looking for families who can care for teens, children with higher needs and sibling groups. To foster through the Department of Children Services visit tnfosters.gov or consider foster care through a partnering agency, which can be found here.
Don’t think you’re ready to become a foster parent? That’s ok! There are plenty opportunities to be a mentor and/or a volunteer. Click here for more information.
If you’re heavily considering becoming a foster parent, read this How to Become a Foster Parent article with additional information.
Are you already a foster parent and looking for additional resources available to you? Read how Tennessee Supports Foster Families.