In the United States approximately two-thirds of children in foster care have a sibling also in care. When siblings are removed from their home and placed in foster care we make every attempt to keep them together. We understand sibling relationships help children achieve developmental milestones as well as provide emotional support, companionship and comfort in times of change. Separating siblings compounds the grief they feel over separation from their parents and the transition to a new home.
As a foster parent, you have the opportunity to help children heal from past trauma by providing a safe and nurturing home. Your guidance and support are invaluable during such a critical time in their lives. But the process of becoming a foster parent can seem daunting–after all, you are bringing a child into your home, so where do you start? How long does it take?
March is National Social Work Month, a time to shine a light on social workers and the incredible work that they do. From foster care case managers to intensive in-home specialists to licensing workers, they are the true unsung heroes of our organization. Rather than try and explain why social work is so important, we decided to have some of our team members explain why social workers are essential, and why they decided to take up the mantle of social work.
Youth in foster care often hear again and again, “I don’t want you. I don’t want you. I don’t want you.” Rejection is a key component of experienced trauma. Despite the odds, some exhibit remarkable resilience. Resilience is the process of adapting well in the face of adversity, trauma, tragic threats, or significant stress. Cornerstones of Care team member Makaila's story is one of forgiveness, acceptance and extraordinary resilience.
January is National Human Trafficking Prevention Month. Children, especially those who are abused or neglected in their own homes, are especially at risk of becoming one of the 20 million+ people trafficked worldwide for labor or sex. The average age of a child exploited through sex trafficking is 14 or 15. Continue reading to learn the statistics around Human Trafficking, how we are fighting against human trafficking and what you can do to help.
