Work from Home for America
In 1961, Kennedy’s Inaugural address made famous the line, “ask not what your country can do for you--ask what you can do for your country.” May I say that your country needs you to consider foster parenting in 2018? In SC last year, there were 18,000 reports of abuse and neglect, and we are about 1500 foster families short of what we need to care for these children who deserve a family (June, 2017).
In case you didn't know yet, your state is currently fleshing out a federal lawsuit. Under the new Michelle H law, federal monitors are keeping SC Department of Social Services more accountable for a few improved outcomes for children in foster care, especially children over 6 years old. They could really use your help to do it! One of these outcomes is getting children in families where they belong, and out of hotels/group homes/institutions. When the lawsuit was filed, South Carolina placed a higher percentage of children age 12 and under in group facilities than any other state.
Kennedy went on to add in his famous speech that working for your country would involve strength and sacrifice.
“Finally, whether you are citizens of America or citizens of the world, ask of us here the same high standards of strength and sacrifice which we ask of you.”
I certainly don’t ever want to come across as sugar-coating this calling to foster older children. It won’t be easy and “good conscience” might surely be your only reward. “With a good conscience our only sure reward, with history the final judge of our deeds…” he adds.
Nevertheless, you will leave a great legacy of compassion and love in your family, your community, state, and country.
Finally he adds, “let us go forth to lead the land we love, asking His blessing and His help, but knowing that here on earth God's work must truly be our own.”
If you are ready to make God's work, loving the least of these, part of your own life's legacy, reach out to us about how to get licensed or ask questions about fostering.
The settlement promises vital changes such as:
Ensuring reasonable caseloads. SC caseworkers are overburdened with caseloads, often over three or four times national standards and the state's own benchmarks, with many workers being responsible for over 50 kids.
Improving safety oversight.
Placing fewer young kids in institutions. The settlement requires reductions in the use of non-family housing for kids. When the lawsuit was filed, South Carolina placed a higher percentage of children age 12 and under in group facilities than any other state.*This is where your state and country could really use your help!
Revamping health care delivery. The settlement addresses longstanding health care issues, including initial corrective actions to address children overdue for check-ups and treatment.
If your family has ever considered being part of the solution to our state's foster care crisis by fostering an older child, now is the time to take action!