With more than 13,000 children in Michigan’s foster care program in need of safe homes for short and long term stays, the holidays take on a whole new meaning this year. It’s never easy to be away from family during the holidays, especially when you’re a child. This holiday season, you can help make the season brighter for kids in need with these four activities.
Consider Becoming A Foster or Adoptive Family
Foster parents play an integral part in helping foster children overcome obstacles, trauma and find success in life. It can be a positive, life changing experience for your family and the children you care for. Homes are needed for kids for short and long-term care. Learn more about becoming a foster parent at the Michigan Department of Health & Human Services website, Raise Hope & Foster Dreams.
Sign Up To Be A Mentor
You don’t need to live with a child to make a difference in their life. January is National Mentoring Month and signing up to be a mentor is a great way to start a new year. Child Safe Michigan offers an award winning mentorship program that gives you the opportunity to become a friend, ally and cheerleader for a kid in need. The Mentor Michigan Program connects adults with mentorship programs that serve kids in foster care, including My Sister’s Keeper, Winning Futures, Big Brother Big Sisters and more.
Support A College Fund
Looking for a way to support kids in need this holiday season? Make a contribution to the Fostering Futures Scholarship Trust Fund. Many of us have been fortunate to have families that helped pay for college or provided support in other ways during our undergraduate life that allowed us to have a more secure start in adulthood. You can offer that same security to Michigan teens by supporting the Fostering Futures Scholarship Trust Fund.
Shine A Spotlight On Foster Services
If foster care or mentorship are not options for you and your family right now, that’s okay. You can still keep up on the work that’s being done in the area by following the websites and Facebook pages for organizations like Judson Center and Child Safe Michigan and sharing on your page to raise awareness with your friends and family.
Learn more about becoming a foster parent at the Michigan Department of Health & Human Services website, Raise Hope & Foster Dreams.
About Carrie Budzinski
Carrie Budzinski is the Vice President of LittleGuide Detroit. She grew up in Livonia and Detroit and continues to live life in both cities. Carrie loves exploring the city and finding hidden gems in the suburbs..
