Equipping Foster Youth
to thrive into adulthood
Foster youth are among the most vulnerable in our communities.
It is estimated that between 60-85% of “commercially sexually exploited children” within the US were at one time in the child welfare system. Each year, 250,000+ children are placed into the foster care system in the United States.
Youth that age out of foster care are faced with overlapping barriers such as poverty, mental health challenges, lack of social networks, and few options for safe, stable housing. These barriers compound and create vulnerabilities to abuse, exploitation, homelessness, and human trafficking. Fostering Hope is working to change this reality.
1: https://youthtoday.org/2019/09/washington-state-must-help-not-arrest-sex-trafficked-minors-such-as-homeless/
2: https://nfyi.org/51-useful-aging-out-of-foster-care-statistics-social-race-media/
Our vision is to see families supported and vulnerable youth recognizing their value and worth, experiencing the unconditional love of Jesus, and growing into their full potential.
Our Mission is to encourage and equip foster youth and families to thrive.
Our Values:
• Building trust with youth and those who serve them.
• Holistically resourcing foster youth as they mature into
adulthood and practice resilience.
• Extending unconditional compassion so youth realize
they are known and loved by Jesus and others.
Churches Have Impact
Through Fostering Hope, churches are engaging with their foster communities in unique, tangible ways:
Fostering Hope Seattle
The Fostering Hope program originated in Seattle at the First Free Methodist Church. Over the years, the Seattle Set Free team’s work to holistically support families, social workers, and foster youth has been changing the lives, the systems, and the culture of foster care in King County, Washington.
Fostering Hope Spring Arbor
Fostering Hope Spring Arbor is uniquely and intentionally coming alongside social workers to show appreciation for their essential and tiresome work of serving those most vulnerable. They create a space for social workers to rest by hosting staff picnics, coffee meet-ups, and more!
6 ways your church can take action through Fostering Hope:
#1
Provide tangible avenues of hope for youth as they exit foster homes by providing necessary life skill training and first apartment essentials.
#2
Participate in events that communicate great value, potential, and opportunities for foster teens.
#3
#4
#5
#6
Host support services like: Foster family support groups, Caregivers night out, Social worker appreciation, Office moms and dads, Care Closet support.
Raise awareness and create partnerships in your church and community.
Pray for vulnerable foster youth and their families.
Give to Set Free so we can continue to support and expand this important work.
Contact us to start Fostering Hope at your church.
Contact us today to learn more about how your church or team can be involved in Fostering Hope.