Persons interested in exploring foster parenthood are encouraged to register for an upcoming 10-week course provided free of charge by Saint Francis Community Services, starting at 6 p.m. on February 27, at St. Mark’s Lutheran Church, 2101 Jackson Street, in Great Bend.
Designed to help persons make an informed decision about becoming a resource family for children in foster care or adoption programs, the course also provides training required by the State of Kansas for potential foster parents. Participants acquire information and skills that help them gain a better understanding of the needs of children in foster care, while learning about resources for foster parents, parenting techniques, and available support services.
Nearly 40 Barton County children must stay in homes outside the county because there are not enough local foster families to accommodate them. These children urgently need 22 new families to house them closer to home.
Persons interested in registering for the course or in learning about becoming a foster parent are encouraged to go online to www.fostercare-ks.org or to call toll-free 866-999-1599.