Story by Kristy Brown
Every child deserves a loving, stable home where they feel valued and supported. Strong families and connections help youth thrive, shaping their futures and strengthening our communities. For youth in foster care, these relationships are especially vital. All youth need caring adults who encourage their dreams, uplift their voices, and provide the stability every child deserves.
According to the latest available data, from 2019-2021, Pulaski County reported a foster care rate of 53.7 per 1,000 children aged 0-17, a sharp increase from 41.1 per 1,000 in 2014-2016 (KIDS COUNT Data Center; Kentucky Youth Advocates, 2022). While specific numbers of children in foster care are not provided, these rates indicate a rising demand for foster homes and resources. This underscores the importance of recruiting additional foster parents and ensuring youth in care have access to strong, supportive relationships and opportunities to thrive.
At Specialized Alternatives for Families and Youth of Kentucky, Inc. (SAFY), we know empowering young people in foster care goes beyond meeting their basic needs—it’s about helping them build meaningful relationships, advocating for their future, and ensuring they receive the support they need from their community.
How SAFY supports youth in foster care
Giving youth a voice – Every youth deserves a say in their future. SAFY ensures that youth in foster care are heard, respected, and involved in decisions that affect their lives.
A holistic approach – We recognize that a youth’s well-being is shaped by physical, emotional, educational, and cultural factors. Every young person is unique, and we strive to create environments where they feel seen, valued, and understood.
Building strong relationships and communities – Supportive connections are essential for all youth, especially those in foster care. SAFY helps youth build relationships with caring adults, whether foster parents, family members, mentors, or friends—who provide guidance and a sense of belonging.
How you can help — Fostering is one way to make a difference, but there are many ways to support youth in care:
Advocate – Encourage policymakers, educators, and community leaders to prioritize the needs of youth in foster care. Policies that promote stability, educational opportunities, and mental health support can transform lives.
Educate – Learn about foster care and the challenges faced by children and families. Awareness fosters empathy and leads to meaningful action.
Support – Whether through mentoring, donating, or fostering, everyone can contribute to creating a network of care that uplifts youth and provides them with the tools to thrive.
Take action today — National Foster Care Awareness Month is a call to action for all of us. We can ensure that every youth in foster care has the opportunity to grow, succeed, and feel supported. When our youth thrive, our entire community is stronger.
If you are interested in becoming a foster parent or learning more, SAFY is here to help. Visit SAFY.org or contact SAFY’s Louisville office at 502-813-8280 to find out how you can make an impact today.
Compass Communications 