WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (CBS12) — As students head back to the classroom, communities across Florida are helping foster children start the school year with confidence.
Special back-to-school events are providing foster families with school supplies, resources and a chance to connect with others who understand the unique challenges of caring for children in foster care.
“It helps us out tremendously because we’re always super busy,” said foster parent Latisha Williams.
The events bring together foster parents, child advocates and community partners to make sure children have the essentials they need for a successful school year. Families can pick up backpacks, school supplies and other items often found on classroom supply lists.
“It’s an event that brings the community together. It’s beautiful,” said Phil Scarpelli of Family Partnerships.
For many caregivers, the gatherings offer more than just supplies. They also provide an opportunity to build relationships and strengthen support networks.
“Come hang out and network with other foster families,” said foster parent Bridget Draffen.
Foster families, child advocates and community partners came together at a back-to-school event to provide school supplies, resources and support for children in foster care as they prepare for the new school year. (WPEC/Forever Family)
Advocates say those connections are critical as communities work to recruit more foster parents and support children in need.
“Everyone does this out of the bottom of their heart,” said child advocate Nikki Riggsbee. “Helping get more foster parents in means we can provide more support to the children who need it.”
Foster parents also play an important role in supporting families working toward reunification, providing children with a safe and stable home while their biological families receive needed services and support.
“Families need help,” said foster parent Nicole Torrez. “If you have a heart for helping kids, this is probably the greatest way that you could do that.”
For more Forever Family stories, visit ForeverFamily.org in partnership with ChildNet and The Boca Raton.
Forever Families is Sponsored by Baker & DiSalvo Personal Injury Law.