This May, the Oregon Department of Human Services (ODHS) is putting the spotlight on the pivotal role of resource families, respite providers, and relative caregivers who support children and young adults during periods of foster care. In an announced proclamation, Governor Tina Kotek paid tribute to these individuals, highlighting their tireless efforts to foster secure and nurturing environments for those in need. According to ODHS, these are the people creating homey havens filled with love, warmth, and stability.
The importance of these supportive relationships can't be understated, especially for children who have suffered from traumatic experiences. Citing Harvard's Center for the Developing Child, ODHS notes that such relationships are key in building resilience amid adversities. With a certified respite program now in place, ODHS is offering a versatile way to pitch in for anyone inspired by the impact of these resource parents and respite providers, which currently include 138 active and 205 certified since its 2023 inception, even when their homes were temporarily opened to just offer a break.
A partnership with Every Child and a peer mentorship initiative are just some of the efforts spearheaded by ODHS to boost resource parent recruitment and to provide valuable connections between new and experienced caregivers. "Just a few hours a week of quality time with a young person can make a huge difference," Child Welfare Director Aprille Flint-Gerner said, emphasizing the significance of even the smallest interactions with children and young adults in care.
For those considering getting involved, the doors aren't just open for prospective resource parents. ODHS celebrates the breadth of possibilities to elevate the lives of foster care participants and their families. The list of opportunities spans from becoming a resource parent to providing vital respite care, or diving into volunteer work across multiple platforms. Among them, organizations like Project Lemonade and Court-appointed Special Advocates (CASA) stand ready to usher interested parties into action. To learn more or to dive in, individuals can visit Foster.Oregon.gov, or call 1-800-331-0503.
