On the recordMay 20, 2014
We know a lack of normalcy and barriers to participation in sort of age-appropriate activities increases vulnerability of trafficking, homelessness, and other negative outcomes that kids that are in foster care experience. This bill--and I appreciate the authors of this bill--would ensure that youth and foster care can participate in more age-appropriate activities and they are going to be better connected with their communities and their friends and less vulnerable, therefore, to becoming victims of sex trafficking. In all this nastiness, negativity, and ugliness, I get to talk about a little ray of hope, though, as well. Bethany Christian Services, which is located in west Michigan and has operations in my district, is an example of an effective child welfare organization that dramatically improves outcomes for children in foster care. Bethany comes alongside families who will walk with these kids at this time of crisis and welcome them unconditionally into their loving, caring homes. It is also an organizational model that has proven successful. Foster parents work with staff from community agencies toward identified goals for the children in their care, empowering these foster parents to dramatically improve outcomes for those kids that are in their care. I thank the author of this, who is going to give this same opportunity to all foster children.
