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Honoring Foster Families
May is National Foster Care Month, and at Camelot Community Care, we’re dedicating this time to recognize the incredible dedication of our foster families. Each day, these compassionate individuals offer the stability, love, and safety that children in need rely on.
Our foster families are integral to our mission of bringing families together for a bright future. They play a vital role in helping children heal and grow, often after experiencing trauma and loss. As part of National Foster Care Month, we want to acknowledge the incredible work foster parents do and offer ways you can get involved and support their critical work.
Foster Care Facts
As of 2024, there are approximately 369,000 children in foster care across the United States, according to the Adoption and Foster Care Analysis and Reporting System (AFCARS). In Florida, there are over 15,000 in a foster care setting, providing a safe environment for children in need. These children range in age from infants to young adults, with the average age being just over 8 years old.
Sources: CAFO; FL DCF; AdoptUSKids
The primary reasons children enter foster care include neglect, parental substance abuse, and caretaker inability to cope. Once in care, the goal is to provide a safe and nurturing environment while working towards reunification with their families or adoption into permanent homes.
Source: Casey Family Programs
Nationally, nearly half (46%) of children exiting foster care in 2022 were reunified with their families, and 27% were adopted. In Florida, during the 2023–2024 fiscal year, 3,847 adoptions were finalized, with 52.3% occurring within 12 months of the child becoming legally free for adoption.
Sources: Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute; FLGOV Office of Adoption and Child Protection
These statistics underscore the critical need for dedicated foster parents who can provide the stability and care that children in the system require.
"We are so proud of our foster families, whose love and dedication shape the future of countless children. Their efforts make a lasting difference in our community, and we thank them for their continued selflessness."
-Michael DiBrizzi, CEO of Camelot Community Care
How You Can Help
Become a Foster Parent
Becoming a foster parent is a powerful way to make a lasting difference in a child's life. Camelot Community Care is always looking for caring individuals and families to provide a safe, loving home for children in need. Our team offers full support throughout the fostering journey, ensuring you're equipped to help these children thrive. Learn more about how you can get involved and start making a meaningful impact today!
Support Foster Families
Donating is another impactful way to help support children and families in need. Your contributions directly provide essential resources, training, and support for foster families across Central Florida. By donating to Camelot Community Care, you play a crucial role in ensuring foster parents have the tools and guidance they need to create stable, loving homes. Every donation, no matter the size, helps make a difference in the lives of these children.
Join Us in Saying 'Thank You'
Join us in saying "Thank You" to the incredible foster parents who make a difference in the lives of children every day. Foster parents play a vital role in providing love, stability, and hope to children in need, and expressing our gratitude can make their journey even more rewarding. Whether it's a handwritten note, a small gift, or a message on social media, simple acts of appreciation can go a long way in showing them how much their dedication means. If you're looking for ideas or options for expressing your thanks, feel free to contact us directly. You can also share your appreciation on Camelot Community Care's Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn to inspire others to do the same.
Together, we can make a difference in the lives of children and families. Join us this month as we celebrate the extraordinary foster parents who change lives every day.
With gratitude,
Team Camelot Community Care
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