Lincoln, NE – May is recognized as National Foster Care Month. The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is celebrating the dedicated foster parents and foster homes who provide safe, stable, and supportive environments for children and youth across Nebraska.
Foster parents play a critical role in helping children feel safe, connected, and cared for during times of uncertainty. Their compassion, patience, and commitment make a lasting difference in the lives of youth and families every day.
“Foster parents open not only their homes, but their hearts,” said Dr. Alyssa Bish, Director of the Division of Children and Family Services. “We are deeply grateful for the individuals and families who continue to show up for children and youth when they need support the most. Every child deserves to feel safe, valued, and supported, and foster families help create the foundation children need to thrive.”
As part of ongoing Right Home, Right Time initiatives, DHHS continues working alongside community partners and foster care agencies to support efforts that help children and youth remain in family-like settings whenever possible. Foster care agencies and providers play a vital role in recruiting, training, and supporting foster homes throughout the state. While all foster homes are critically important, there is an especially significant need for homes willing to support youth with higher acuity needs, sibling groups, and older youth, who often face additional barriers to placement and stability.
The need for foster homes remains urgent to provide youth with stability, connection, and community support. Safe and nurturing foster homes help children maintain relationships, continue school and activities, and experience the consistency necessary for healing and growth.
Individuals interested in learning more about becoming a foster parent or supporting foster families can visit https://nfapa.org/what_you_can_do/ or call 1-800-7PARENT (1-800-772-7368).
