Thousands of children are in foster care in South Carolina, many of them right here in Richland County.
During this time, things can be even more difficult for these families with biological family visits, routine, creative outlets and activities being disrupted. Imagine being stuck inside with a brand new family 24/7. Or, as a parent, imagine parenting without a break with added trauma.
Here are several ways you can support foster families in Columbia.
Send a Card
You can make or buy a card for a foster mom (or dad) and mail it to the Richland County Foster Parents Association (PO Box 292134, Columbia, SC 29229). A few words of encouragement can go a long way. You can even include a gift card for gas or groceries if you want, as this is a BIG help.
Pack a “First Night” Bag
If you would like to donate items straight to the kids, consider packing a First Night Bag. These bags are age and sometimes gender-specific and include all the basic supplies so foster parents don’t have to go out, kids in tow, at odd hours to try to buy everything they need last minute. It also helps prevent children from arriving at your door with all of their stuff in a trash bag.
Plus, packing these can even be fun. Remember, a new diaper or duffel bag itself is important! For babies, try to include: bottles, formula or coupons, an outfit or two, bib or towel or drop cloths, diapers, wipes, pacifier/teethers, blanket. For older children, try to include socks and underwear, toothbrush, stuffed animal, and maybe even pajamas. For teens, include more appropriate toiletries and maybe even a small gift card so they can get what they need.
You can find more information on what supplies to donate from the Richland County Foster Parent Association. Feel free to email them. You can also check out the Department of Social Service’s (DSS) wish list.
Become a Foster Parent Yourself
Finally, if you want to do even more, consider becoming a foster parent yourself. There is definitely a huge need for foster families in our area!
Before you think ‘I couldn’t do that’, you should hear more about how to become a foster parent. Start by visiting the DSS website. It is full of all the information you need.
While it can take quite a while, there’s no commitment along with the way and it is free. Worried about how it might affect your home? Here’s an article from a biological kid’s perspective on bringing foster children into the family.
