All children should have the opportunity to grow up in a loving, caring environment, but many do not. For families who need them, services in the children’s foster care system in Michigan represent a critical lifeline to healing, providing children who have been removed from dangerous or unhealthy environments the care and other support they need to heal and grow.
The state’s foster care system isn’t supposed to provide just shelter from a storm, but paths to long-term stable housing — whether reunification with families, placement with relatives or adoption. A team of child protection professionals thoroughly evaluate each incident, and decisions are made in the best interest of the child.
What makes foster care services in Michigan unique?
One of the things that makes foster care services in Michigan so unique is the strong support given to foster parents. From required training programs to access to mental health assistance and educational advocacy, these services provide caregivers with the tools to manage the multifaceted needs of children who have faced neglect, abuse or trauma. Specialized foster homes are available for kids with medical or emotional needs, and boys over 14 get extra help to prepare them for independent living.
Even with these elaborate precautions in place, there is no easy way to protect the system. There is a continual lack of licensed foster homes for teens and sibling groups. A key, advocates say, is raising public awareness about the realities —and rewards — of fostering. For many who open their homes to foster children, the experience is life-changing, full of deep connection and purpose.
Another creative feature of the state’s foster care program involves an emphasis on local participation and mentorship. “Opportunities for mentoring young people are greatest when working with young people, side by side, on a day-to-day basis,” Christian said, and placements that match youth with mentors help support consistent, trusting relationships that continue even after a child ages out of care. Foster youth also get support for their educations, including tuition waivers at public colleges and assistance with job readiness skills.
In recent years, Michigan’s foster care services have also shifted their emphasis toward prevention. Through early identification of at-risk families and the offering of programs of support like parenting classes, substance abuse counseling and economic assistance, caseworkers work to minimize the necessity to remove in the first place. This preemptive strategy not only reduces potential trauma in children but also helps maintain family unity when possible.
Growing up in foster care is not easy, and there are a lot more obstacles that I can and will overcome with your compassion, support, and voice to help make a difference and insure that foster care doesn’t suck. Every child who finds stability thanks to foster care services in Michigan is proof that community-supported care is powerful and that no child should be left behind.
Ryan Harish is the author of this article. For more details about Family Based Care and Youth Transition.