May Is Foster Care Awareness Month - And the Need Is Real Every May, Foster Care Awareness Month shines a light on the more than 328,000 children in foster care across the United States—each one in need of safety, stability, and connection. [cafo.org] While that number has declined in recent years, the reality is clear: the system still depends on compassionate individuals and families stepping forward. And today, there simply aren’t enough homes to meet the need. In fact, there is currently about one licensed foster home for every two children in care, leaving many youth waiting longer for the stability they deserve. [imprintnews.org] This gap is why foster parents matter—now more than ever. The Need Goes Beyond Numbers Behind every statistic is a child navigating uncertainty. Many children in foster care have experienced trauma, loss, or instability—and need more than just a place to stay. They need: - Consistency - Support - Belonging - Someone who shows up The average child spends over a year in foster care while working toward reunification, adoption, or another permanent outcome. [theglobals...istics.com] That’s why foster families play such a critical role. They don’t just provide care—they provide connection during one of the most important chapters of a child’s life. 30 Years of Showing Up: The Necco Difference For 30 years, Necco has been committed to showing up—for children, for families, and for communities. We know that fostering is meaningful work—but it’s not something you should ever do alone. That’s why Necco surrounds every foster parent with real, ongoing support at every step of the journey. When you foster with Necco, you’re part of something bigger. You’re part of a family. Our support includes: - 24/7 crisis support so you’re never navigating challenges alone - Ongoing training and development to help you grow with confidence - Dedicated caseworkers and team support who know your family and your needs - Events and community connections that bring foster families together - Resources and guidance tailored to each child and family Because at Necco, fostering isn’t just about placement—it’s about partnership. You Can Be the Difference Foster care can feel overwhelming from the outside—but becoming a foster parent starts with a simple step: learning more. You don’t have to be perfect. You don’t have to have all the answers. You just have to be willing to show up. Because when you do, you create something powerful: - Stability in uncertain moments - Support during difficult transitions - A sense of belonging that stays with a child long after they leave your home Start Your Journey with Necco This Foster Care Awareness Month, as we celebrate 30 years of showing up, we invite you to consider how you can be part of the next chapter. Become a foster parent with Necco—and help ensure every child has a place to call home. 👉 Click HERE Learn more and get started today.

