Studies have consistently shown that foster care can significantly improve the long-term health outcomes for children who have experienced abuse, neglect, or other adversities. When children are placed in a supportive and nurturing foster care environment, they have better access to healthcare services, mental health support, and educational opportunities, which are crucial for their overall development and well-being.
This ensures that foster families are equipped to handle any situation that may arise. Including
ongoing foster guidance and resources from social workers and community organizations.
“God knew these kids needed us whether it is for a short time or forever and he led us to where we were supposed to be”. COURTNEY THOMPSON, foster parent in NC
Foster care systems aim to provide a temporary, safe living situation for children who cannot live with their families due to safety concerns, parental illness, or other issues that may jeopardize their well-being. In these settings, foster parents and caregivers are trained to provide the emotional and physical support needed to help children heal and thrive. The overarching goal of foster care is not just to provide safety but also to promote healing and resilience, enabling children to overcome their early life challenges.
“Every child deserves a safe and loving home,” says Adrienne Beatty, Trillium’s Director of Network Development, “We want to be sure the families in our communities feel supported in providing that home.”
Research indicates that children who enter foster care often come from backgrounds of severe neglect or abuse. These adverse experiences can have profound negative effects on their physical and mental health. Without intervention, these children might suffer from long-term health issues like depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as well as physical ailments stemming from poor nutrition and lack of medical care.
“[Becoming a foster parent is] the hardest and most heartbreaking thing you could ever do, but it is also the most rewarding thing you could ever do.” Anise Stafford, NC foster parent
A key aspect of improving health outcomes in foster children is the provision of consistent and comprehensive healthcare. Foster care agencies collaborate with healthcare providers to ensure that children receive regular health check-ups, vaccinations, dental care, and mental health counseling. These services are vital for addressing any immediate health concerns and for preventing long-term complications.
Mental health services are particularly crucial. Many children in foster care have experienced traumatic events that can leave lasting psychological scars. Therapeutic interventions, such as trauma-informed care and cognitive-behavioral therapy, are essential for helping them cope with their experiences. By addressing these issues early on, foster care can play a significant role in mitigating the long-term mental health risks associated with early adversity.
Educational support is another pillar of foster care that contributes to improved health outcomes. Foster children often lag behind their peers academically, partly due to frequent school changes and instability at home before entering the system. Foster care agencies and caregivers work to provide a stable educational environment and additional support such as tutoring and mentoring. Education is closely linked to long-term health outcomes, as higher educational attainment is associated with better access to healthcare, higher income, and reduced risk of involvement with the criminal justice system.
In North Carolina, organizations like Omni Family of Services exemplify the positive impact of dedicated foster care services. Omni Family of Services operates with a mission to support and strengthen families. It provides training for foster parents, ensuring they have the necessary skills and resources to care for children effectively. The organization also focuses on therapeutic foster care, which is tailored to meet the needs of children with significant emotional or behavioral health issues. This specialized approach ensures that children receive not just a home, but a supportive, healing environment where they can thrive.
The success of foster care programs like those offered by Omni Family of Services highlights the critical role that foster care plays in improving health outcomes for children. Through comprehensive care, therapeutic support, and educational advocacy, foster care can transform the trajectories of young lives, providing children with the tools they need to build a healthy, successful future. By continuing to support and develop foster care programs, society can help ensure that all children have the opportunity to overcome their early challenges and achieve their full potential.
Omni Family of Services (formerly Omni visions) has partnered with Trillium, to help provide potential NC foster parents with the resources they need in counties across the state:
- Dare
- Halifax
- Hyde
- Hertford
- Martin
- Nash
- Northhampton
- Pamlico
- Tyrell
- Washington
Omni Family of Services’ foster and adoption programs serve these counties on a 24/7 basis.
