Foster Love. Foster Parent!
In Tennessee alone, there are over 8,300 children in the foster care program. In Shelby County, approximately 200 of the hardest-to-place children - children who are older and/or in sibling groups - wait for a qualified and willing family to foster them. Porter-Leath's Connections program serves these children and needs adults who are willing to open their home to join our family of foster homes. The program provides a wealth of training resources as well as ongoing support for both the foster child and the family.
Porter-Leath needs your help!
If you've ever considered being a foster parent, or even think you might be interested, please take time to learn more about why being a foster parent makes a lifelong difference for children - and for you!
Porter-Leath was founded as an orphanage, the precursor to foster care, in 1850, so you won't find a more experienced partner to be there with you and your foster children every step of the way. With over 170 years of experience, we've seen it all! As your partner in the foster care journey, Porter-Leath will provide initial funds for necessities, a monthly stipend, 24-hour support, case management, medical support, and continual training on how to best help your foster children. In addition, you and your foster children will enjoy annual celebrations that recognize your commitment to helping youth find a stable, nurturing home.
Impact
Here's a short list of foster children who have gone on to enjoy tremendous success, all because someone with an already loving heart opened their home to care for them:
- Steve Jobs
- Jamie Foxx
- Eddie Murphy
- Willie Nelson
- Cher
- Nelson Mandela
That said, it's not about being famous. It's about sharing your life experiences as the primary mentor and provider for children with no other place to turn. As a foster parent, your input on young lives is tremendous. You're the coach, champion, and caregiver for our future.
Knowledge Empowers You.
New to foster care? Don't worry, our Connections staff will be there with you every step of the way. Our Knowledge Empowers You (TN-KEY) classes equip you with the resources you'll need to be a great, nurturing caregiver for children. Topics covered in KEY include:
- Orientation
- Understanding the Child Welfare System
- The Impact of Trauma on Children
- Effective Discipline
- Cultural Awareness
- Medication Administration
- CPR and First Aid