Missouri Celebrates National Foster Care Month

JEFFERSON CITY, MO – Governor Parson signed a proclamation designating May Foster Care Month in Missouri.

Robert Knodell, Director of the Department of Social Services says foster parents provide the security, safety and stability children need when entering into care.

More than 14,000 children and youth are in Missouri foster care. Knodell says there is always a need for more foster families in Missouri, especially for older youth or sibling groups. The Department strives to provide foster families close to the life, community, school, friends, and people children know when going into foster care.

To become a foster parent you must be at least 21 years of age; complete a child abuse and neglect check and criminal record check; be in good health; have a stable income; be willing to participate in and complete a free training and assessment process, voice perspectives and concerns as part of a professional team; and be willing to partner with the child’s family.

To learn more visit the Missouri Department of Social Services online.