A time to recognize foster parents

May is National Foster Care Month, a time to recognize and honor the critical role that foster parents play in the lives of children and youth in care. Across the country, thousands of individuals and families open their homes and hearts to children who have experienced abuse, neglect, or trauma. These foster parents provide not only shelter and safety, but also compassion, stability, and a path toward healing and hope.
Foster parenting is one of the most selfless and courageous acts a person can undertake. Children enter foster care through no fault of their own, often during moments of great upheaval. In these times, foster parents serve as a stabilizing force, helping children feel seen, valued, and supported. Whether it’s helping with school transitions, attending therapy appointments, or celebrating birthdays and milestones, foster parents show up for children in countless ways that shape their development and build resilience.
This month is also an opportunity to highlight the diverse contributions of foster families. Foster parents come from all walks of life. The statewide performance standard for relative placements is 35.7% or greater and MNPraire County Alliance placed 71.7% of children placement with relative caregivers in 2024 (Tableau, 2025) or more than double the statewide requirement. Some offer short-term emergency care, while others provide long-term placements or support youth transitioning into adulthood. Each of these roles is vital. It takes a broad and inclusive community to meet the needs of children in care, and foster families are at the heart of that network.
The impact of a nurturing foster home extends far beyond immediate safety. Research from Casey Family Programs (2024) shows that children who feel connected to stable caregivers are more likely to succeed academically, develop healthy relationships, and build self-esteem. When foster parents can partner with birth families, case workers, and service providers, they contribute to better outcomes and greater permanency for children. Reunification, adoption, and kinship care are all possible when foster parents act as mentors, advocates, and allies for the children they care for.
At the same time, we acknowledge that fostering is not easy. The emotional, logistical, and relational demands are significant. Foster parents face uncertainties, navigate complex systems, and sometimes experience grief when children leave their homes. Their resilience, compassion, and commitment deserve our deepest respect and support, not just in May, but year-round.
This month, let us thank the foster parents in our communities. Let’s uplift their stories, provide them with the training and support they need, and recognize their contributions as essential to child welfare. If you know a foster parent, take time to express your appreciation. If you’ve ever considered fostering, now is a great time to learn more and explore whether this path is right for you.
Every child deserves to grow up in a safe, loving, and stable environment. During National Foster Care Month, we celebrate those who step forward to provide that for children in need. Foster parents are everyday heroes, and their impact lasts a lifetime.
For more information on how to support foster care or become a foster parent, contact your local child welfare agency or visit https://www.childwelfare.gov/fostercaremonth.
Patricia Harrelson, MSSA LICSW is the program manager, Child & Family Social Service, MNPrairie County Alliance.