People often ask us how they can help support foster families in our program. This is a great question! Here are 10 ways that you can support foster families.

1.  Become a respite care volunteer

Respite care volunteers help foster parents when they need a babysitter for a date night out, a family emergency, or just need a short break. Respite care volunteers must complete an application, maintain CPR/First Aid Certification, and pass a background check. To learn more about becoming a respite care volunteer, or to start your application, please contact Home Developer at 214-526-8721.

2. Restaurant and Meal Delivery Gift Cards

The first night of a foster placement can be a little busy. You can help a foster parent by donating a gift card for a popular meal delivery service like Uber Eats or Door Dash.

3. Family Movie Night

A family movie night is a great way to bond with a new foster child. You can help a foster parent by donating a gift card to a movie rental service.

4. Diapers and Wipes

Foster parents can always use diapers and wipes! We accept unopened packages of diapers sized for infants and children up to three years. Learn more about hosting a diaper drive here.

5. New Books

Bedtime stories are great, but books can be for grownups too. Here are some of our favorite books for foster children and foster parents.

6. New Backpacks

Many foster children carry their belongings in plastic bags when they enter care. You can donate new backpacks to help them carry their belongings and start their new school.

7. Winter Clothing and Accessories

Help a foster child stay warm this winter by donating new jackets, hats, scarves, and mittens. If you enjoy knitting, our families love handmade scarves!

8. Coloring Books or Journals

Journals and coloring books can help children relax, express their emotions, and keep their hands busy. Children of all ages find therapeutic benefits in paper crafts.

9. New Blankets and Stuffed Animals

Something soft a cozy can make bedtime easier for little ones in care. Blankets are also a great way to personalize their new bedroom in their new foster home, and gives them something that is all “theirs.”

10. Help us spread the word

• Please “like” and share our Facebook posts.

• Add our slide to your digital signage.*

• Add a banner to your website.*

• Place brochures in your reception area. *

* Contact Clyde Hemminger CHemminger@hopecottage.org to obtain digital or printed media.

Another great way to help is to stay Informed. Follow us on Facebook. Hope Cottage Foster Care Services has a Facebook page where we post fun and informative content for all types of families. It is a great way to learn more about fostering and adoption.