Members of the Kentucky Foster and Adoptive Parent Training Support Network spotlighted their need for more foster parents that are able to take care of children with medical conditions.
The Network is a statewide organization composed of experienced foster and adoptive parents who support and train new foster and adoptive parents. Leslie Vass and Noell Robinson from the network appeared on WHOP on Monday and shared how folks can help foster children in the region.
In 2024, Vass shared that the network gained 53 new foster homes and she wants to see the progress continue this year. However, 29 foster homes closed.
Robinson says they currently need more foster parents that are able to take care of medically complex children. According to the network, in Kentucky there are 221 children in the foster care system with medical conditions and there are only 66 foster homes available to meet their needs.
Training is provided to foster parents willing to take care of a child with a medical condition. Robinson says on the spot medical training is also provided if foster parents are picking up a child from the hospital.
Those interested in becoming foster parents can attend a virtual informational meeting on March 24 at 5:30 p.m. Vass says the meeting is a chance for prospective foster parents to ask questions and decide if fostering is something that they want to do.
Folks can register for the meeting by emailing natalie.hill@ky.gov.