Welcome to the 2023 July issue of Foster Family News, a monthly newsletter for current and potential Fairfax County foster parents. Our monthly newsletter shares resources, news, tips, events, and trainings relevant to foster and adoptive parents, children in care, and the resource workers who support them. 

Fairfax County Foster Care and Adoption was so excited to partner with Foster the Family D.C. to offer a fun foster family event to kick off the summer on Saturday, June 10, 2023. This event was our way of showing appreciation for our fabulous foster parents who put it all on the line to support the children in foster care and their families. Each foster family is so loved, and we are grateful for you every day! Read More! 

The Exceptional Circumstances Payment Pilot Program for foster parents has been extended through June 30, 2024. This program provides time-limited funding to approved foster homes to make it possible for the foster parent to provide near constant supervision such as taking a period of leave from employment during an exceptional circumstance. The funding is intended to prevent the child’s displacement or allow for a placement to occur and address the child’s exceptional circumstances. Read More.

A near fatal overdose is the catalyst that propels a cadre of dedicated people working in county and community programs as well as relatives and foster parents to support two young children and their family through a separation. Read More.

“I can honestly say that without this department and without the process, that my failure as a mother, would’ve been inevitable. It was the resource I needed to push myself in the direction I so badly needed and wanted to go in.” Learn more about our Reunification Month Celebration and the lived experience of a parent who ultimately benefitted from the intervention of Fairfax County Foster Care and Adoption.

Meet Mark, a charismatic teen who loves telling hilarious jokes. He is a joy to be around and makes friends easily. Mark enjoys school and is a role model to others with his leadership skills. His teachers describe him as attentive, hardworking, and having a positive attitude. To learn more about Mark and how to become a foster to adoptive parent, check out our Children Awaiting Adoption page.

On Demand Scheduling this Summer – Virtual Body Safety Classes 
The Body Safety Program is now offering 30-60-minute virtual classes to any Pre-K through sixth grade students living in Fairfax County. These one-on-one or small group classes emphasize online safety. Offered in English or Spanish.
 

Saturday, July 22, 10 a.m.- Noon – Game Time with the Washington Commanders. Hang out and play football and games with Team Captain Charles Leno, Jr. and teammates. Lunch and goodie bags provided.

Friday, August 4, 5-7:30 p.m. – Family Summer Picnic in Van Dyck Park hosted by Formed Families Forward
Kinship, adoptive, and foster families are invited to this picnic to enjoy free food, games, a magic show, a service project, activities for teenagers, and more. 

Saturday, August 12, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. – Textured Hair Care Workshop for transracial adoptive parents, foster parents, social workers, and caregivers offered by Foster the Family D.C. and Styles 4 Kidz. Includes an overview of basic hair care, types, textures, skincare, protective hairstyles, and practice styling. $30.

The Department of Family Services supports families and county residents of all ages and stages of life – and that definitely includes foster parents and families! Like and Follow @FairfaxCountyFamilyServices for news, events, tips, stories, training opportunities and more.

A variety of organizations offer support to adoptive, foster, and kinship care families in our region. Register online for a preferred support group. 

Sunday, July 2, 7:30-9 p.m. – Formed Families Forward Virtual Peer Support Groups for foster, adoptive, and kinship families. 

Monday, July 10, 6:30-8 p.m. – Foster the Family D.C. Fairfax County Support Group for foster, kinship, and adoptive moms in Falls Church.

Wednesday, July 12, 6-8 p.m. – National Kinship Caregiver Support Group hosted by A Second Chance Inc. In Arlington, VA. 703-228-1556. 

Sunday, Aug. 6, 7:30-9 p.m. – Formed Families Forward Virtual Peer Support Groups for foster, adoptive, and kinship families.

Monday, Aug. 14, 6:30-8 p.m. – Foster the Family D.C. Prince William County Support Group for foster, kinship, and adoptive moms.

Monday, Aug. 14, 7 p.m. – Foster the Family D.C. Mom’s Gathering at Caboose Commons in Fairfax. 

Each newsletter will include this section to help answer questions, spotlight the people who support foster families, highlight the donors and sponsors who generously give to foster care programs and activities and friendly reminders for foster families to sign-up for trainings.

How much can I spend on clothing for children placed in my home? What is reimbursable?

Answer: The Virginia Department of Social Services administers a yearly clothing allowance to all children in foster care. The amount depends on the age of the child and is listed on the Financial Agreement foster parents sign at the time a child joins their family. Read More.

Check out other frequently asked questions and answers from past issues.