LIMA, OH (WLIO) - Allen County Children Services recognized the efforts of local foster families in celebration of National Foster Care Month.
The annual Foster Parent Appreciation Banquet was held Thursday to give back to those who provide safe and secure homes to kids in tough family situations while they wait for permanent placement.
In Allen County, there are 33 families certified by the state of Ohio to foster children. It's a job that requires patience, empathy, and the ability to manage the kids' busy schedules, which could include visitation, counseling, and after school activities. The keynote speaker of the evening, Jewel Vaugh, explained just how much of a lasting impact foster parents leave on their kids.
"We have a lot of youth that contact former foster parents, that will go back and have holidays with them, and have a lot of communication with them. Creating that bond with them and taking care of them during that time of need may not sound like much, but it really is a connection and does last a lifetime for them," said Shelly Conrad, the program administrator for Allen County Children Services.
If you're interested in fostering, Allen County Children Services will have a virtual information session on May 29th at 5:30pm.
