May is Foster Care Awareness Month
May is Foster Care Awareness Month—a time to honor the incredible strength, resilience, and love that exists within foster families, biological families, and most importantly, within the children and youth who navigate the foster care system every day. According to the most recent data, approximately 1,272 children under the age of 21 are in the care of Rhode Island’s Department of Children Youth and Families (DCYF) and living in out-of-home placements.
At Family Service of Rhode Island, we believe that every child deserves a safe, nurturing environment where they can grow, heal, and thrive. Foster care is not about replacing families—it’s about wrapping around children and their parents with the support they need during times of crisis. When families face challenges, foster parents step in as partners in care, offering stability and compassion while maintaining the goal of reunification whenever possible.
We are always in need of more foster parents—especially those who reflect the diverse communities we serve and who are open to older youth, sibling groups, and children with complex needs. If you’ve ever considered opening your heart and home, know that you won’t do it alone. Our dedicated team stands beside every foster parent with training, resources, and 24/7 support.
The Need in Rhode Island
Rhode Island is facing a shortage of foster homes, especially for:
- Sibling groups so brothers and sisters can stay together.
- Teens, who often wait the longest for placement.
- Children with medical or behavioral needs, who require specialized care.
- Children of color and LGBTQ+ youth, who deserve affirming, culturally responsive placements.
Too often, children are placed far from their communities—or even in institutional settings—because there simply aren’t enough foster families available. You can help change that.
Who Can Foster?
Foster parents come from all walks of life. You can be single, married, partnered, LGBTQ+, a renter or homeowner, a parent or not. What matters most is your willingness to open your heart and home to a child in need.
With support and training provided through agencies like [Family Service of Rhode Island], you don’t have to do it alone. Foster parents are part of a team that includes social workers, therapists, and educators—all working together to help children heal and thrive.
How You Can Help
- Become a foster parent: If you’ve ever considered fostering, now is the time. Reach out to learn more, ask questions, and explore whether it’s right for you.
- Spread the word: Share this post or talk to friends and family about the need for foster parents.
- Support foster families: Offer practical help like meals, childcare, or mentorship to those already fostering in your community.
This month, and every month, we celebrate the village it takes to care for our children—and we thank you for being a part of it. Foster care isn’t easy—but it is deeply rewarding. By opening your home, you can help a child feel safe, valued, and loved.
Learn more about becoming a foster parent at: https://www.familyserviceri.org/programs/foster-care/
