Foster Care Month 2021
In recent weeks we have been reminded of the many hardships children in foster care face, particularly teenagers and older youth. For one of these children, we have witnessed how such circumstances can lead to ultimate heartbreak - a tragic and untimely death. Ma’Khia Bryant’s experience was not exceptionally different than that of thousands of other children in foster care, particularly for children of color who are disproportionately represented in foster care systems across the country. Like Ma’Khia, many youth in foster care are faced with experiencing multiple traumatic circumstances including, but certainly not limited to, abuse and/or neglect, removal from their home, separation from family/siblings, unstable or inappropriate placements (which can change often and may include re-abuse), and an overall lack of a support system. There is often an absence of a responsible, consistent adult who can serve as a support to help navigate difficult circumstances that arise. Children and youth are exposed to these circumstances not by their own choosing or by any fault of their own. The choices and decisions of others have forced them into unimaginable situations.
According to the US Department of Health and Human Services Children's Bureau, the median amount of time for a child to spend in foster care is 14.7 months. In St. Louis, children spend about 30 months in foster care. The length of stay for children of color is about six months longer. The foster care system is not intended to be a permanent home. When children stay in care for extended periods, they often remain in a world of instability and vulnerability.
During National Foster Care Month we recognize that as a community we have an obligation to ensure children in care are seen, valued, and have their voices heard. CASA of St. Louis stands in support of not only of the 400+ children served by our program, but for ALL children in foster care. We envision and advocate for a community where all children have the stability, support, and resilience needed to survive and thrive in and beyond foster care.