Foster homes desperately needed in SLO County
This year’s devastating wildfires have brought to the forefront the critical shortage of foster homes not only in the areas directly affected by the fires, but also in the entire state. Even before the fires, some counties had been forced to place youths in homes 100 or more miles away.
There is a tremendous need in California, and particularly in San Luis Obispo County, for long-term foster homes. At the same time, foster youths need the support of trusted, caring adults to help them navigate transitions and possible changes in all aspects of their life: school, doctors, therapists, a new home, neighborhood and new foster parents.
If you, family, or friends have ever considered becoming a foster parent or a CASA volunteer —a caring and consistent volunteer advocate for a foster youth — there is no better time to offer your support.
To learn more about becoming a foster parent or a CASA volunteer, please contact the Department of Social Services (slofostercare.com) or CASA of San Luis Obispo County (slocasa.org).
Teresa Tardiff, San Luis Obispo
This story was originally published December 2, 2017 at 2:21 PM with the headline "Foster homes desperately needed in SLO County."