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 Going into the foster care system can be scary. I can still remember how scared I was when I went into the foster care system at the age of 12. I didn't know what to expect. I had no clue whether my foster family would be nice or even what they looked like. I knew nothing about the foster care system or the Department of Children's Services. I had never even heard of foster care until I was in it. Even after spending almost five years in foster care, I still don't know everything. But I do know that in my situation, my life has changed for the better. I know that everyone's experience in foster care is unique, but we all have some important things in common. It is possible that you will have to leave your family, friends and even school when you come into care. There is even a chance that you will have more than one placement while you are in care. You will probably feel angry, hurt, sad, and/or alone. It is okay to have those feelings and emotions. Some kids I know had a worse experience in foster than I did, and that’s why kids like us are making changes to the system to make it better. Just remember that you are not alone and that other kids are and have gone through what you are going through. You should identify people that you trust to talk with and share your feelings with about what is going in your life.
 Children like us go into the foster care system for many different reasons. The most common reason is because of abuse or neglect. This does not mean that we are “bad kids”, so don’t let anyone tell you that you are. Foster care is meant to be a temporary placement until situations in your home can improve so you can safely live there. For whatever reason, the court felt that the situation was not safe for you and approved a plan, known as a permanency plan, to make the home safe again. When you come into care, you will be assigned a case manager. This person is responsible for finding a safe home for you while you are in foster care and for making sure your parents or guardians have everything they need to make their home safe for you to return to. The case manager is also responsible for regular visits and contact with you to make sure that your needs are being met. It is a good idea for you to let your case manager know how you feel about what is going on and what you would like to see happen in your situation. You will also be assigned a “G.A.L.” This is a Guardian Ad Litem, and they will be responsible for representing you in court (link to brochure). If you feel you are not getting the help that you need, you should contact your Guardian Ad Litem. |
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