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By Barbara Willard
Rappahannock News Writer
Ever thought about becoming a foster parent? Chances are your friends and family will either raise you to the level of a saint or they will ask if you are “nuts”! There are approximately 13 great families serving as foster parents for children and youth in Rappahannock County. These families are making a tremendous difference in the lives of some of Rappahannock’s children and youth.
The need for foster parents is a continuing need when we realize that on an average day in Virginia, 20 children are placed in foster care. The statistics for Rappahannock County’s 13 foster children show that the average age of a foster child ranges from 13-15 years of age; there are more boys than girls; and more Caucasian than African-Americans.
Why are children and youth placed in the foster care system? The usual and most unfortunate reasons are child abuse/neglect; parents, although doing the best they can with their resources, need help with their child; and sometimes a judge may order a child or youth into foster care.
Regardless of why a child or youth may be placed into the foster care system, citizens are to be mindful of the fact that a child or youth has had their entire world turned upside down. And, more often than not, it is through no fault of the child or youth. Amazingly, children and youth in the foster care system have a huge capacity for unconditional love and most foster care children and youth have survived intolerable situations.
Foster parents/families provide an unselfish and public-spirited service to their community. They are providers of love and nurturing while watching the transformation of a child’s or youth’s life. These parents/families provide a critical element that was most likely missing from the child’s life, emotional balance, being able to set firm limits while not being afraid to show what tough love really means. This reassurance, thus given helps children and youth learn responsibility; at the same time they are given the opportunity to grow and develop. A caring community can help
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