Jan 30, 2024
Summary:
Discover the profound journey of becoming a foster parent in a nation grappling with a staggering shortage. In this episode, we explore the critical issue of the national decline in foster parent numbers, intensified by a 60% drop since the onset of the pandemic. Arizona, mirroring this trend, has witnessed a drastic decrease from 5,559 licensed foster homes in 2019 to a mere 2,798 as of November 2023 – marking a nearly 50% loss.
Against this backdrop, our guests, Elisia and Jade
from Step Stone Youth Agency, shed light on the challenges and
rewards of foster parenting. At a time when Arizona is fervently
working to address the shortage through extensive recruitment
initiatives, this podcast provides a timely and insightful
conversation. If you've ever wondered about the complexities,
triumphs, and heartaches involved in fostering, join us as we
explore the untold stories and experiences that shape the journey
of these unsung heroes. The need for foster parents has never been
more urgent, and this episode aims to inspire and inform,
encouraging listeners to consider making a difference in the lives
of vulnerable children.
Resource Links:
Foster - Step 1 and 2 - Let's Get to Know You | Arizona Department of Child Safety
Arizona - StepStone Family & Youth Services
Foster Arizona | Foster & Adobt
Foster Care: Avoiding Foster Parent Burnout | Justice Resource Institute
Connect with us!
Email: info@fosteraz.org
Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast
Instagram: @FosteringVoices