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In the past, we have discussed myths and misconceptions about the Foster Care system, facts and figures, and even helpful hints for new resource parents; but we want to take it back to the basics. If you are interested in becoming a resource parent or want to become involved in the community, there are three things you need to know first. How, why, and what.
1. How the system works
The foster care system is designed to provide a safe, temporary residence for children who have been subjected to abuse, neglect, or other factors in their family of origin that place them at high risk of harm. While each placement is intended to be temporary and the ultimate goal is to reunite the child with their biological parents, some cases do end in adoption. When a child enters foster care, they are immediately placed with a licensed foster family, a biological relative, or a group care facility. Each child is assigned a specific social worker who then creates a reunification plan and goal, working with the court and the birth family if possible. If the situation does not permit reunification with the birth family, the social worker then sets up a different plan of long-term fostering with the hope of adoption.
2. Why the system is needed
In the United States, there are roughly 400,000 children in foster care at any given time. When the state is able to provide the children with a family unit through a qualified foster care placement, the children are able to find a temporary safe space through the family. Without great foster families, social workers, and volunteers, the outcome for children in foster care would be uncertain. A safe haven is an incredibly important resource for every child as their reunification and/or a permanency plan is created.
3. What you can do to help
Perhaps the best place to start is to learn all you can about the current U.S. foster care system and the children who find themselves there. In this process, you will be able to best find your place within the system, and begin to be an active voice for children. If you feel called to become a foster parent, know that this is a decision that requires a great deal of commitment and patience but is also a huge need within the system. You may feel your best fit is as a social worker or an activist for foster care reform. Whatever the case, your help is both needed and appreciated greatly.
We hope that this basic guide to the foster care system helps with your understanding or encourages you to look into it more. Remember that thousands of children enter foster care every day. What can you do to help them get the life they deserve?
