The year 2020 was challenging, to say the least, and 2021 could bring us many of the same struggles. Perhaps our world needs more people who are aware that we all belong to each other. People like you. The Foster Care Coordinator plays a unique role in child welfare. We value your time and strive to help make your life easier. With that in mind, this month, we are highlighting a 2020 Coalition-created webinar, tip sheet, and newsletter that you may want to share with your families who are in different stages of their fostering experience. And please remember that our library of resources is vast. Feel free to contact us directly or search our lending library for any specific topics you are interested in.

When a Parent Is Incarcerated: Supporting the Child in Your Care 

Millions of children have experienced the incarceration of a parent in the U.S., and many of these children are also in foster or relative care. This webinar will focus on how a parent’s incarceration affects a child and how those caring for children with an incarcerated parent can best help and support a child to navigate this difficult situation. 

Being a first-time foster parent can be exciting. You have learned a lot and are working on building your circles of support. While you wait in great anticipation for that first child to arrive at your home, you’re probably wondering what to expect.

We know that every family is unique, and every child will bring individual needs, joys, and challenges. There may be moments that are emotional and frustrating, and challenging, and there will be moments that are filled with joy and fulfillment. In this tip sheet, we wanted to share some situations you may experience along your fostering journey. 

We will leave you with the reminder that the Coalition is here to help you meet your recruitment and retention goals for the new year. As Fred Rogers said, “It’s easy to say ‘It’s not my child, not my community, not my problem.’ Then there are those who see the need and respond. I consider those people my heroes.” Again, thank you for the important work you do.