Every May, we honor National Foster Care Month—a time to reflect, uplift, and advocate for the children, youth, and families connected to the foster care system. Behind the official proclamations and hashtags lies a deeper truth: this month is about humanity. It’s about remembering that every child deserves a safe place to belong and thrive.
What Is Foster Care Month?
National Foster Care Month began in the 1980s to raise awareness about the needs of children in foster care and recognize the contributions of foster families. Today, the focus has expanded to include biological families working toward reunification, kinship caregivers, caseworkers, mental health professionals, and advocates who help children heal and grow.
More than 391,000 children are currently in the U.S. foster care system. These children enter care through no fault of their own—often due to abuse, neglect, or family crisis. Some stay in care for a few days, others for years. While many are reunited with their biological families, others are adopted or age out without a permanent home.
Why It Matters
Foster care isn’t just a system—it’s a network of lives impacted by trauma, transition, and sometimes, transformation.
Children in foster care often face:
- Emotional instability due to frequent moves
- Interrupted education
- Challenges accessing mental health care
- Stigma or misunderstanding from peers and adults
Yet, within these challenges, there are also powerful stories of hope:
- Foster families who offer unconditional love and support
- Youth who rise above adversity and pursue college, careers, and advocacy
- Social workers who fight for the best interest of every child
May reminds us that awareness isn’t enough. We must act with compassion and purpose.
How You Can Help
You don’t have to be a foster parent to make a difference. Here are several ways to support children and families impacted by foster care:
- Become a foster or respite care parent. Even short-term care can be life-changing.
- Mentor a youth. A consistent adult presence can build self-esteem and trust.
- Support foster care nonprofits. Donate, volunteer, or help organize drives for clothes, school supplies, or hygiene items.
- Advocate for better policies. Push for trauma-informed practices and more mental health funding.
- Share stories. Use your online or offline platform to educate others and reduce stigma.
National Foster Care Month is about more than recognizing a system—it’s about honoring the people within it. As we begin this month, ask yourself: What can I do to make a child feel seen, safe, and supported?
Stay tuned for part two of this series on May 5th, where we’ll hear real voices from the foster care community and explore the emotional depth of their journeys.
.png)
.png)