- Who We Are
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What We Do
- Helping Children
- Strengthening Families
- Building Community
- Get Involved
Children in foster care are our neighbors, and we all share a responsibility to protect those vulnerable in our community. But our duty goes beyond simple protection. We all have gifts, talents and resources we can use to ensure kids in foster care know they are loved and valued. If you’re not already serving kids in foster care, we hope this list helps you get started.
Learn more about foster care.Many things we hear about foster care aren’t true and can even be harmful. Be part of the solution. Learn how foster care works and learn about the current needs in our community. PCHAS Online Info Sessions are a great place to start.
Show respect. Kids in foster care are kids. They are in care because they are victims of abuse and neglect. By respecting their story and family, honoring the limits of confidentiality, and speaking in uplifting ways, you can help change the often-negative narrative about children in foster care.
Words matter. Using affirming words shows kids that you see them and their potential. It also demonstrates our confidence that God has plans for a hope and a future for everyone. For example, we use the term “kids in foster care” instead of “foster kids” because children can experience being in foster care, but it doesn’t define who they are or what they can become.
Support reunification. The goal of foster care is for kids to go back home. When birth families make their homes and family safe again, they teach their kids the value of perseverance and show how much they love them. As a community, we should be cheerleaders and advocates for God’s restoration of families. We should never root against them or hope for their demise. Read more about supporting reunification.
Essential (and not so essential) items. Kids in foster care need the same things all kids do. Nutritious food, comfortable clothing, a safe home, gifts, celebrations, extracurricular activities and field trips all add up. PCHAS foster families are committed to giving kids the best, but it can be hard to tackle everything at once, especially when families welcome siblings and their family multiplies instantly. Donating things kids and families need (and want) shows your attention to their interests and lets them know you care.
Support young adults aging out of foster care. At 18, young adults in foster care can choose to emancipate from the system. They often lack the support system crucial to the success of most young adults. Navigating employment, housing, food, transportation, education, relationships, recreation, managing money and the many other responsibilities of independence is a lot. Access to mentors, encouragers and systems that support young adults in these challenging situations is critical. Read more about what happens to youth in foster care when they turn 18.
Prevent kids from aging out of foster care. We can help young adults who have experienced foster care by ensuring they are permanently connected to a family before they become adults. Whether through adoption or a commitment you make in your heart, connecting with kids in foster care and ensuring their support system is in place before they turn 18 can make a big difference in their lives as young adults.
Support foster families. Foster families give of themselves constantly so kids from hard places can experience the love of a safe and nurturing family. When we show love for foster families, we also love the kids they serve. Read more about how to support foster families.
Advocate for kids and families in our community. Children don’t have a voice, so adults need to listen, learn and speak up on their behalf. Taking action when you see discrimination or inequities for kids in foster care shows your commitment to a community that is safe and caring for everyone.
Become a foster family. Be family for kids when they need one. We’ll support you every step of the way! Join an Online Info Session or Connect With Us at 281-324-0544 or fosteradopt@pchas.org to learn more.