Did you know? Our local community is in desperate need of more African American foster parents.
In St. Louis alone, African American children represent nearly 70% of kids in foster care, but less than 1/3 of the general population. Furthermore, only 13% of local foster parents are African American. Twice the number of African American children are placed into foster care compared to Caucasian children. African American children remain in foster care nearly a year longer than their white counterparts, creating more trauma and instability in these children’s lives.
We know that children placed within culturally similar foster homes have a better chance to heal. RESPOND, a program of the Foster & Adoptive Care Coalition, is part of the answer to this crisis. RESPOND’s ultimate goal is to increase the number of Black/African American foster families for African American children in foster care.
Want to Learn More?
Join us for an informational Zoom session on the RESPOND program to learn how you can get involved.
Tuesday, July 22 | 6–7:30 p.m.