Did you know that more than 513,000 American children are in foster care? May is designated Foster Care Month to raise awareness about their plight. The goal is to safely reunite as many of these children as possible with their parents (if they have the means to support them), or to find loving families they can join for keeps. Here are some simple ways you can help:
- Wear a blue ribbon this month (the Foster Care Month official ribbon) and explain why to people who ask about it. You might even attend a local ribbon-tying ceremony to show your support for the foster kids in your state.
- Donate goods such as books, games, computers, sports equipment, musical instruments, clothing, and school supplies to young people in foster care. Find information on local drives and collection locations at National Foster Parent Association.
- Youngsters with a passion can join a youth-led community effort to raise funds and public awareness to benefit the cause and to fight child abuse and neglect. Learn how at Band Together.
- Become a virtual mentor or e-pen pal for a college student in foster care. Get started at Orphan Foundation of America.
- Visit the Foster Care Month site for more ideas on how to get involved.
