The U.S. is in the midst of a foster care crisis. Currently, there are more than 400,000 children and youth in the foster care system nationwide. Across the state there are roughly 13,000 children in foster care, and right here in Kent County, 532 children and youth are in foster care.
Organizations like Bethany Christian Services, a partner of the Grand Rapids Center for Community Transformation, provide preventative programs that aim to keep families together and keep children from entering the foster care system. But focusing on prevention includes looking forward at the next generation of parents. We must empower them by investing in an optimistic vision paired with resources to meet the various needs of youth.
Here to discuss is Crystal Houston, Executive Director with the Grand Rapids Center for Community Transformation. For more information, visit: normalwasneverenough.org or grcct.com
