Refugee's come with a variety of experiences and behaviors, such as, sexual trauma, mental health concerns, substance use, LGBTQI+, and parenting mothers. We need families who have an interest or expertise in or understanding of these areas in order to welcome a child in to a home and avoid creating any more traumatic experiences in their life.

Currently, there are 20-25 children referred to us and waiting for a foster family to welcome them into their home until they can be reunified with a safe sponsor or build the capacity to
flourish independently. Many of these children have been waiting over 500 days in a shelter. We also need foster families who can provide respite, take a child who needs to change foster homes or a youth who is ready to move out of a group home and into a family.

The first step to become a Refugee Foster Parent is to attend a free, no-commitment, virtual Information Meeting. At these meetings, you will learn more about Refugee Foster Care, the
needs of refugee youth, and how you can provide children with the love, protection and support that they need and long for as they navigate life in a new place.

Please don't hesitate to reach out with any questions or for more information at 616-256-2293 or chopkins@bethany.org.