I'm In!

Another Foster Care Awareness Month has come to a close. What? You didn't even know that May was Foster Care Awareness Month? Maybe we need to do a better job at making people aware!

So, what should you know about Foster Care? Well, there are hundreds of kids right here in Indiana who are currently being cared for by adults who have stepped up and said "I'm In!".

Those adults are not paid. Many people don't realize this. They are given a Per Diem by the State to help offset the cost of caring for the kids. This is to feed, clothe, and house the kids. It is to provide activities, school supplies, toys. It buys diapers and formula and computers and phones. It covers transportation costs, which can be extensive with visits, meetings and appointments. Anyone who has anything to do with kids realizes that this amount, which begins at a rate of about 90 cents an hour, doesn't begin to cover the expenses. And remember, they also supervise, entertain, hold, soothe and build up these kids 24/7. They do it because they believe in what they are doing, and want to be a positive influence in their lives.

Foster Families can be many different things. It can be a husband and wife, who have no children of their own. Or they can have kids of their own. They can also be husband and husband, or wife and wife. Couples do not have to be married. Single people can foster. Foster parents can be above 50, or 60, or 70 or more. People of any race are encouraged (kids often prefer families who look like them or speak their native language). Families may rent or own their home or apartment. Being rich is not required, we just need families who are able to meet their own basic financial needs. Families can look many ways. Can you see yourself here?

Kids in care are not in Foster Care because of something they did. It is not because they were bad or because they are difficult. They are in care because their homes and families were not safe for them. They are often removed due to abuse or neglect. Sometimes it is because their parents are in legal trouble, many times related to drugs. Kids may be struggling in reaction to these events, because these are difficult things to experience. Foster parents need to be understanding and supportive to help children heal.

And last of all, for those of you who are afraid to become a Foster Parent because you are worried that you will get too attached, WE NEED YOU! Kids need people who will get attached to them. They need this to feel important and to grow and to heal. They need this to learn what a healthy relationship looks like and what it feels like, so hopefully they will be able to create those positive relationships as they continue their lives. Will your heart be affected? Yes. Will it be worth it? YES.

If you would like additional information on becoming a Foster Parent, please check out the DCS website http://www.in.gov/dcs/2955.htm. If you would like information about adopting children who have been in foster care, see www.adoptachild.in.gov.