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Ever considered becoming a foster parent, only to back off on the idea because the process seems too daunting? A new partnership among the West Virginia Department of Human Services, Aetna Better Health of West Virginia and 10 foster care agencies statewide is aiming to change that.
In an effort to address the shortage of foster parents in the state, the group is putting together a campaign that targets both single and married adults who have considered being foster parents but never qualified to do so.
"This initiative aims to demystify the journey of becoming a foster family in West Virginia," said Cynthia Persily, secretary of the West Virginia Department of Human Services, according to a report by WBOY. "By shedding light on the process, we empower families to better understand and navigate it. Expanding our state's pool of available foster parents will positively impact the children in need of stable, secure homes, and in turn, impact the future of our entire state."
The youngest of our Mountaineers have suffered the most over the past several years, and for those looking for a way to help, giving these vulnerable children shelter from that storm is huge.
"'If you've ever considered fostering, West Virginia needs you now.' That's the message we want to communicate to people," Rachel Kinder, Mission West Virginia executive director, told WBOY. "We know people can be intimidated by the thought of fostering, frequently worrying that they don't have enough resources or the right personality to open their home to a child or teen."
If your personality includes being the kind of person who wants to make a difference for these kids, it's a good start. Go to www.wefosterwv.org to find out more. The information and support available there will help you get the ball rolling. You -- and the children you help -- will be glad you did.