Foster parents needed for kids
New data out this month from the Minnesota Department of Human Services reports that 9,880 children and youth experienced out-of-home care in 2024. Children’s Home and Lutheran Social Service of Minnesota are affiliated organizations seeking foster parents to partner with them to care for children.
“Statewide, there is a shortage of foster families. There is an urgent need to find families willing to open their hearts and homes to children and teens at a critical time in their lives,” said Candy Picka, foster care supervisor for Children’s Home and Lutheran Social Service.
Foster parents are particularly needed for sibling groups, children with behavioral health needs and kids with varied family histories and life experiences, according to the Minnesota Department of Human Services. Many children, approximately 64%, are from Greater Minnesota.
Molly and Jason Schuneman had been pursuing adoption and decided to explore the foster care adoption program that serves children under Minnesota state guardianship and aims to provide permanency through adoption. After becoming licensed foster parents, they welcomed three siblings from Greater Minnesota into their home in February — ages eight, ten and six months.
“We absolutely adore these kids,” Molly shared. “I feel more fulfilled than I ever thought was possible, knowing we gave these kids a safe place to come and just be kids.”
Life got busy quickly for the Schunemans – enrolling children in school, getting them to appointments or activities and fostering friendships with others in their new community. Having a strong support system, from family members, friends and even Molly’s employer, has been key to making the transition as smooth as possible.
“My employer has been phenomenal,” offering flexibility, work from home opportunities and emotional support, Molly shared. Friends and family members have also been there to pick up a child from school or provide other support when needed.
They also have 24/7 support from a social worker with Children’s Home and Lutheran Social Service, as well as from the county where the children lived previously. “Whenever we call, our social worker is always there, along with our county worker. They are great.”
It’s not always easy. Children come with their own unique needs. “Depending on the child, they may have gone through extreme situations that we don’t understand,” Jason said. “It could also be something that we feel may be normal but is new to them – something as simple as brushing your teeth or cleaning your plate. Progress comes in small steps.”
Children’s Home and Lutheran Social Service provide a range of services based on the unique needs of each child in foster care to ensure that all children have individualized supports they need to build healthy relationships and flourish in the community. Comprehensive, ongoing training for foster parents also promotes high quality care and ensures they have the support needed to be successful in creating a safe and stable environment where children thrive.
“It’s emotional and stressful for children to leave their home,” Picka said. “Foster parents who offer a welcoming, nurturing and supportive environment can make all the difference. We’re there to walk with them every step of the way by providing support, guidance and training.”
Children’s Home and Lutheran Social Service are seeking foster parents who are willing to listen, provide support and help children create healthy relationships in their families and communities. Flexibility, patience and a healthy sense of humor are also ideal characteristics for foster parents.
“You can see them change from where they seemed unsure at first to now, and how much they smile -- it’s great,” Jason said. To learn more about becoming a foster parent, visit chlss.org or call 800.952.9302.