Foster Parents Needed for Kids
Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota (LSS) is seeking foster parents to partner in caring for children and youth in need. If you are interested in making a difference in children’s lives, consider becoming a foster parent.
On an average day, there were approximately 9,300 children and young adults in care in 2019, according to the most recent information available through the Minnesota Department of Human Services. While recent news stories have reported that the number of children entering foster care is down, Jodi Raidt, statewide program coordinator with LSS Therapeutic Foster Care, said that the need for foster parents is still great.
“We are in the process of recruiting foster parents statewide,” Raidt said. “We hope that individuals and families who have been considering this opportunity will take this time to learn more. Fostering is a rewarding experience and to have someone step forward and provide a safe and caring environment can be life-changing.”
LSS Therapeutic Foster Care provides a spectrum of services based on the unique needs of each child, ensuring that all children in our care have the individual supports to build healthy relationships and skills to meet their specific needs. Foster parents receive ongoing education to care for children and trained professionals are available to answer questions or offer support 24/7. LSS can provide weekly support from a mental health practitioner. As a foster parent, you can help children and families as they build resilience and stabilize.
“My favorite thing about fostering is being able to love and welcome a child into my home,” said Mel Wander, who worked with LSS Therapeutic Foster Care to earn her foster care license. “Being there for the children when they need love, support and security the most is the best feeling in the world.”
Families and individuals who provide foster care can have different household structures and come from diverse backgrounds. LSS is seeking prospective foster parents who are willing to listen, support and create positive relationships in their families and communities. Flexibility, patience, consistency and a healthy sense of humor are also ideal characteristics for foster parents.
Lutheran Social Service invites anyone interested in becoming a foster parent to attend the organization’s online information session on Saturday, May 15 at 10 a.m. The session will offer information about LSS’ Foster Care services, the licensing process and how you can foster the lives of Minnesota children.
Registration is available through a link at lssmn.org/events.
You can also learn more by contacting Jodi Raidt at [email protected] or 612.499.5990, or by visiting www.fostercaremn.org.