Library: News Releases
Rise in Number of Foster Children Fuels Need for More Foster Homes
OKLAHOMA CAPITOL -- In March of this year there were 6,371 children in foster homes across the state, almost a five percent increase from last year and nearly a 40 percent increase from just five years ago.
To help raise awareness of these ever increasing numbers, Gov. Frank Keating has proclaimed May 2002 as Foster Care Month. The Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS) Foster Care program asks all Oklahomans to not just consider fostering a child, but to get involved in breaking the cycle of abuse that leads to foster care by volunteering as a child advocate, a mentor or a counselor.
"The numbers are getting higher and higher with no end in sight," said Marilyn Alexander, OKDHS foster care programs manager. "We’re overwhelmed. We lack the money, the manpower and the resources to take care of this ever-growing population. The only thing we have in abundance is abused and neglected children."
"People think that foster care and child abuse are not their problems," added Alexander. "But it’s the business of every citizen because every child is a valuable commodity, a piece of Oklahoma and it’s future and they should be protected and nurtured. Until we get more foster homes, these kids will languish without good family role models and the cycle of abuse will remain intact."
To become a foster parent you must be at least 21 years old and financially stable. You do not have to own your own home and you can be married or single. There can be a maximum of only five children in the home and six children total. When you become a foster parent, you will receive a monthly reimbursement from the State to help meet the needs of the foster child. Liability insurance, medical, dental and mental health benefits will also be provided to the foster child. Childcare assistance is available for foster parents who work 20 hours or more a week.
If you or someone you know would like to experience the rewards of becoming a foster parent, or if you would like to become a volunteer, please call 1-800-376-9729, or click on http://www.okdhs.org/fostercare. To report suspected child abuse or neglect, call 1-800-522-3511, or contact your local OKDHS county office.
###
