May is National Foster Care Month: Valuing Every Child

Every child deserves to grow up healthy, happy, and connected to their family, friends, and community. For the more than 400,000 youth currently in the foster care system nationwide, this isn't always the case, sadly. National Foster Care Month is a reminder to honor these children, and do all we can as a community to maintain their vital family connections and ensure their lifelong well-being.

Here at Franklin County Children Services, we are working hard to keep children out of placement and with their families whenever possible. Maintaining children safely at home means helping their families stay stable and strong through difficult circumstances.

If a child has to be removed from their home because of safety concerns, Franklin County Children Services does everything it can to place that child in the temporary or permanent care of a loving, capable relative. This is an increasingly common placement scenario known as "kinship care."

If family members are unavailable, a child may be placed in a temporary foster home where foster parents provide a nurturing, stable environment. Being a foster parent is a wonderful opportunity to make a profound difference in a child life. Those interested in pursuing foster parenting are encouraged to contact their local foster care agency.

For more information on National Foster Care Month, visit www.fostercaremonth.org To make a difference with foster children here in Central Ohio, consider volunteering. Inspiring mentors willing to be a positive influence in the life of a child are always needed. Call 614-275-2690 for more information.