ODESSA, Texas (KOSA) – There are 435 children in the West Texas foster system, and the majority of them are living far from home.
According to data highlighted in this week’s Finding Family report, 89% of West Texas foster children are placed outside the county where they grew up. Sixty-one percent are living outside the region entirely — separated not only from their parents, but from their schools, churches, coaches and friends.
Research points to local placement as key to better outcomes
Research indicates that when foster children remain close to their home communities, healing happens faster. Children who stay connected to their schools and communities show better outcomes and a greater chance at family reunification.
The primary solution, according to the report, is more local foster parents in West Texas.
Resources available through Foster West Texas Kids
Foster West Texas Kids is a collaborative effort among several nonprofits that connects prospective foster families with licensed child-placing agencies across the region. The organization provides resources to help families learn about fostering, find support and take the first step toward becoming licensed.
Those interested in fostering, adopting, volunteering or sharing a child’s profile can find more information by visiting firstalert7.com and clicking on the Finding Family tab.
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