The Social Determinants of Health
When we say a family is in crisis, we usually mean they’re struggling with one or more social determinants of health. In these cases, children become much more likely to be removed from their homes. The state considers their needs unmet. So what are the social determinants of health, and how does For Others use them […]
A History of Foster Care in the United States
From the 1800s to today, the care for children without families in America shifted from orphanages to foster care. We owe many amazing individuals our thanks for their passion for the well-being of our nation’s children. Yet despite significant advances, the foster care system faces several challenges. A significant number of children still enter foster […]
Sibling Groups in Foster Care
Foster care is an extremely difficult experience for any child, but for sibling groups in foster care, the situation becomes even more complex. Sibling groups in foster care face unique challenges that require special attention and care. We explore the importance of keeping sibling groups together, the hurdles these children encounter, and why foster parents […]
Ideal Family Placements with The Contingent
The second focus of our Well-Being Support Ecosystem™ is to recruit and retain ideal family placements for children in foster care. But what is an ideal family placement, and how do we identify them? This is where our partner, The Contingent, comes in. Their data-driven model helps states identify potentially successful foster families with pinpoint […]
Family Preservation and Reunification with Restore Hope
One of the most effective and crucial ways to end the child welfare crisis is through family preservation and reunification, which is why it’s the first focus of our Well-Being Support Ecosystem™ approach. Over half of the cases involving child removal in 2023 were preventable. Family preservation keeps children from being placed in foster care, […]
The Well-Being Support Ecosystem™
For Others is thrilled to introduce its bold approach to end the child welfare crisis in America, called the Well-Being Support Ecosystem™. The title was decided after Jared Brown, our Executive Vice President of Strategic Partnerships, spent months asking pointed questions and researching every detail about child welfare. Today, he sits down to answer all […]
How to Help Children in Foster Care Adjust to New Schools
Starting a new school can be a daunting experience for any child, but for children in foster care, this transition often comes with additional layers of complexity. Children in foster care face unique emotional and psychological challenges. Major changes like adjustment to a new school environment become even more difficult. In this article, we explore […]
Summer Activities for Children of All Ages
We recently discussed the challenges of summer for children in foster care or unstable homes. Summer break often results in isolation and a lack of routine for kids who rely on the transportation, daily lunches, and socialization that school provides. Single parents may also struggle to spend time with their children or provide childcare due […]
Freedom From Chronic Poverty: Financial Resources for Youth Leaving Foster Care
When young adults age out of the foster care system, chronic poverty becomes an immediate concern. With limited financial resources, educational opportunities, and social support, these individuals often face a daunting path to self-sufficiency. In this article, we delve into the challenges of chronic poverty and explore how it uniquely impacts young adults transitioning out […]
The Negatives of Summer Break for Children in Foster Care
As the days grow longer and the temperature rises, excitement fills the air for many families. Most look forward to summer vacation, endless outdoor activities, and a break from the daily grind. However, for children in foster care and families in crisis, summer break often signals a period of uncertainty, isolation, and struggle. While most […]
Foster Care Awareness Month: Why It Matters and How to Participate
May is Foster Care Awareness Month (also known as National Foster Care Month), a time dedicated to acknowledging and supporting children in foster care. We also honor foster parents, family members, volunteers, mentors, and child welfare professionals who help kids in foster care find permanent homes and connections. This month-long observance acts as a tribute […]
The Benefits of Camp for Children
Summer camps offer an incredible array of benefits for all children, serving as a foundational experience that fosters growth, independence, and a sense of community. It’s more than just a fun summer activity; it’s a vital component of childhood development, offering a unique blend of learning, growth, and fun. For children in foster care, these […]
