I would like to commend Gov. Mike Leavitt for his continued focus on the crucial need for more foster families. I was heartened to hear him again place emphasis on this message in his State of the State speech. I am grateful that he continues to carry the concern of the most vulnerable of children in his heart and on his agenda.
We hear so much that children are our future, but how often do we think that this refers to only our own children? Child advocate Marian Wright Edelman wrote, "Each and every American child adds or subtracts, multiplies or divides America's problems and potential and fulfills America's nightmares or dreams." All children are our children, and they require that we stand up for them and make the sacrifices necessary to give them what a childhood should provide.There are a myriad of ways to accomplish this. There is an incredible need for foster families. There is also our program, which is less well known -- the Children's Shelter Care Program. We also have a consistent need for additional families to help take in children. The difference is that our agency focuses on the short-term, immediate care of children.
There may be families who feel that a long-term commitment would not work for their situation. Our program allows families to be of great service to children, while still allowing them the flexibility of short-term placements and time off when needed.
Virtually every day, we see the impact of the shortage of foster and shelter families. Many of our children are slated to move into foster care but must remain with the sheltering family while an appropriate match is found. The greater the number of foster families available, the greater chance there is for the child(ren) to be placed in a home that will provide the greatest chance for success.
While I am expressing my gratitude to Gov. Leavitt, I also am pleading with the community to grasp his message and vision and commit to sacrifice, in some way, for a child. Marian Wright Edelman also stated, "Take at least one step for just one child and you will make a difference."
Sharon Graser
Program director
Salt Lake County Children's Shelter
Murray