May 3, 2024 | Sarasota
May is National Foster Care Month and All Star Children’s Foundation is urgently seeking compassionate individuals and families in the regional community to become foster parents, responding to a critical shortage of foster homes for children displaced from their families due to abuse or neglect.
In the United States, there are over 391,000 children and youth in foster care. Approximately 20,000 youth age out of the foster care system each year without a permanent family. Currently, there are approximately 115 foster homes in the Sarasota area, a significant decline from nearly 200 prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. This decreasing trend poses a serious challenge, as more foster families are needed to accommodate the rising number of children requiring care.
All Star’s Campus of Hope & Healing offers large, fully furnished, rent-free homes and provides an extensive range of support, training, and guidance to ensure foster parents are well-prepared to meet the needs of children in foster care.
“Our commitment is to equip foster parents with comprehensive support so they can create a nurturing environment where children can thrive,” says Denise Marzullo, chief executive officer of All Star Children’s Foundation. Marzullo explains that stable, nurturing placements have positive impacts on children and youth’s resilience and long-term wellbeing. All Star offers top-tier support and resources, including specialized training on trauma-informed care, access to mental health professionals, and a supportive community network.
Those interested in making a lasting difference in the lives of children are encouraged to visit the All Star Campus of Hope & Healing for a guided tour on Thursday, May 16, at 11 a.m., at 3300 17th Street in Sarasota. Details about other upcoming tours and how to become a foster parent are available at www.allstarchildren.org.
“We hope you will join us in our mission to provide every child with the love, safety, and stability they need during challenging times,” says Marzullo. “Your commitment can profoundly impact the lives of children and foster a brighter future for our community.”
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