The month of August brought about many emotions during my youth. The proverbial end of summer break and the beginning of school. The excitement of getting new school supplies, the stress of finding just that perfect outfit to wear on the first day, the curiosity of who my teachers would be, and the frantic calls to friends to find out if we were in the same class(es). I'm sure many others can relate to these feelings.
For children in foster care, the stress of beginning a new school year can look completely different from my own experience. What school will they attend? Will friends be easily made? What will people think of them? Where will they get the brand-new package of pencils and box of crayons? What about that brand new outfit?
As we plan for the beginning of the school year by providing as much comfort to children in foster care as possible, please keep in mind there are other ways to help. Not only do we still need school supplies and new clothing/shoes for the children, but the caregivers also need support. Juggling appointments and transportation to coincide with the school schedule, helping reduce the stress for the child(ren) in their home, completing piles of forms and more, there are ways to support the family as a whole during stressful times.
Offering a meal or setting up a meal train, providing respite care, giving gift cards, and being a listening ear can make a world of difference to a family who fosters. Please consider supporting not only the children in care, but the families who care for the children as well. You can make a world of difference during a very stressful and confusing time.
Forever connecting hearts,
Chris Siemens,
Executive Director
