November is National Adoption Month, specifically adoption through foster care. In an effort to provide the community more information on the fostering process, Chambliss Center for Children will host a free Foster Care Info Night on Tuesday, Nov.
14, from 6-7:30 p.m.
In Hamilton and the surrounding counties, there are more than 1,000 children in state custody at any given time. These children have been removed from their homes because of abuse, abandonment, neglect, or they have come through the juvenile court system. Chambliss Center for Children contracts with the state to find loving, stable foster homes for these youth. Finding a permanent home for these children is the ultimate goal, whether with their biological parents - if the parents can complete the steps needed to regain custody of their children - or with other family members. However, approximately 20% of these youth end up becoming available for adoption.
“This event provides a great opportunity for anyone interested in fostering children, either now or in the future, to get more information, ask questions, and hear real-life experiences,” said Lesley Berryhill, director of Communications with Chambliss Center for Children. “Hosting it in November, during National Adoption Month, also allows us to help bring awareness of adoption through foster care.”
The event will be held at Chambliss Center for Children, located at 315 Gillespie Road. Attendees will view a short film about a child’s experience in foster care and the value of a loving, safe foster home. There will be an opportunity to learn more about Chambliss Center for Children, the foster care system, requirements for fostering and adoption, and to hear from current foster parents.
Free, on-site parking is available. Kindly RSVP to 423-693-2580 by Thursday, Nov. 9, so accurate preparations for refreshments may be made. Child care is also available, but must be scheduled by Thursday, Nov. 9, as well.