Episode 175: I Want to Foster! Now What?

Summary: Discover the profound journey of becoming a foster parent in a nation grappling with a staggering shortage. In this episode, we explore the critical issue of the national decline in foster parent numbers, intensified by a 60% drop since the onset of the pandemic. Arizona, mirroring this trend, has witnessed a drastic decrease from 5,559 licensed foster homes in 2019 to a mere 2,798 as of November 2023 – marking a nearly 50% loss. Against this backdrop, our guests, Elisia and Jade from Step Stone Youth Agency, shed light on the challenges and rewards of foster parenting. At a time when Arizona is fervently working to address the shortage through extensive recruitment initiatives, this podcast provides a timely and insightful conversation. If you've ever wondered about the complexities, triumphs, and heartaches involved in fostering, join us as we explore the untold stories and experiences that shape the journey of these unsung heroes. The need for foster parents has never been more urgent, and this episode aims to inspire and inform, encouraging listeners to consider making a difference in the lives of vulnerable children. Resource Links: Foster - Step 1 and 2 - Let's Get to Know You | Arizona Department of Child Safety Arizona - StepStone Family & Youth Services Foster Arizona | Foster & Adobt Foster Care: Avoiding Foster Parent Burnout | Justice Resource Institute Connect with us! Email: [email protected] Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast Instagram: @FosteringVoices Web: www.fosterarizona.org