Have you ever wondered how Foster Families can afford to give each of their foster children birthdays? It's really not an easy task at all and can be very costly. Thankfully there are amazing organizations out there that can help and Foster Village SWFL is one of them.
Most caregivers foster for less than a year, citing burnout and lack of support. There are a great deal of people out there that express they want to help, but may not be sure how or where to start. Maybe you just want to help by donating a gift or two or even a cake to the birthday child. Foster Village bridges this gap between those experiencing foster care and those who want to help, meeting practical needs and providing holistic support beyond the system.
Foster Village SWFL plans on accomplishing these goals by using three main pillars. Equip, connect and advocate. See below for more on information about each pillar that comes straight from their website, with links!
Equipping Caregivers With Support
When a child is placed with a family, they often arrive with just the clothes on their back. At Foster Village resource centers, families and children can get clothing, new car seats, toiletries and other basic necessities – completely free, in a trauma-informed, developmentally appropriate, and comfortable environment. Welcome Packs can also be delivered within the first 24 hours of receiving a new placement.
Connecting Families to Each Other
Families intersecting with foster care navigate a complex system and unique challenges that come with caring for children who have experienced abuse, neglect, and family separation. When others who are on that same journey offer solidarity and encouragement, caregivers are reminded that they are not alone. By connecting caregivers to one another and to a supportive community, families are strengthened and empowered to be a steadfast source of healing and safety for the children in their care.
Advocating for Community Beyond the System
Foster care is a messy solution to a messy reality. We believe the path to restoration is a safe and supportive community beyond the system. Foster Village upholds the inherent dignity of every child and family, understands the root causes of children entering the foster care system, facilitates relationships between foster and biological families, and replicates villages of support around the nation. We inform and engage the community by elevating the voices and stories of those with lived experience. At Foster Village, we bring awareness to the greatest needs and bridge those gaps so that every family can thrive.
Foster Village SWFL is also known to host events where you can talk with the administrators themselves and learn more in depth on exactly what they do and how you can help. The next event will be taking place at Il Primo Pizza and Wings located on Santa Barbara in Cape Coral.
