We could have doubled the child population in our home this week with the amount of calls I got looking for a home for children in foster care. That is just 1 office, in 1 county, in 1 state. The numbers are incrediably overwhelming. We need more, and more, and more homes for these children. Ever since we took in our last little girl, one of the offices has my number, and I am on their list to call. It has really been eye opening, and heart weighing to get these calls every few days. I just have to say no. I feel bad for the children, I feel bad for the workers...calling everday, despirately looking for homes, and hearing "no, we are full" over and over again. It is probably a good thing that we were already keeping H and A this weekend, or I would have been tempted to say "yes" to one of those calls. Did you know there are over 7,000 children in foster care every year in the state of Arkansas, and only 950 foster homes. You do the math.
If you have EVER considered becoming a foster parent, and want to ask me any questions, fire away. I want to encourage you to check out this website www.thecallinarkansas.org . If you could just help 1 child....you would be giving them a lifetime of hope. You can help foster children in many ways other than just being a parent. I can't tell you how many people have helped me in so many ways with donations, food, love, encouragement, prayer, babysitting, there are so many ways.
Oh girl.. it makes me so upset how LONG this is taking us. I keep thinking "if the need is so great.. why don't they push people through the foster process faster?!"
ReplyDeleteI can't imagine having to say no so many times.. I'm sorry! I know that is so hard on you. I will pray diligently for all of the children, for people to open their homes, for society to not be afraid. Great post.. love you!