Area Foster Families Sought

Grundy County and its surrounding counties of Harrison, Mercer and Putnam have more than 90 children in foster care.
Although many children have found homes with relatives, others are in need of foster families. Unfortunately, the demand for foster homes is quickly exceeding the supply. In order to meet the demand, Healthy Families Programs, an agency within Cornerstones of Care, is asking community members to consider becoming foster parents.
“Our goals are simple,” said Shelia Rancatore, director of Healthy Families. “Keep children in their home community so they can maintain connections; keep siblings together; and have a variety of homes available to meet the diverse needs of the children in care. To attain those goals, we need to increase the number of foster homes.”
Children in foster care have suffered from abuse and neglect. According to the Department of Health and Human Services’ Child Maltreatment report from 2012, within the U.S., 78.3 percent of victims were neglected; 18.3 percent were physically abused, 9.3 percent were sexually abused and 8.5 percent were psychologically maltreated.
“Needless to say, children who have experienced this kind of treatment need safe, stable and nurturing homes.”
The ages of children in foster care range from infancy to 21. In northwest Missouri, the age group with the highest population is 15 years and older, which comprises approximately 25 percent of the children in care. Unfortunately, that same age group has the fewest options of foster homes.
“Finding homes for older children is one of Healthy Families’ greatest challenges,” Ms. Rancatore said.
Healthy Families works hand in hand with the Missouri Children’s Division to train and license foster parents in Grundy County as well as the 29 other counties of northwest Missouri. The families with which they work have varied backgrounds and experiences, however, they all share a willingness to commit and a desire to make a difference in a child’s life.
Applicants to the foster parent program must be 21 years of age or older; be in good physical and mental health; have a stable source of income; pass a background check; and ensure their home meets safety requirements. They must also complete a 27-hour training course and participate in a home study. Training classes are scheduled to begin in Princeton on Sept. 28.
Persons can learn more about the foster parenting program at www.healthyfamilies4kids.org/Licensing. To start the foster parenting process or speak to one of the Healthy Families staff, persons can call 855-SRV-KIDS (855-778-5437).