Foster Friendly Woodstock

In the State of Georgia, there are now approximately 12,100 children and youth in foster care. The number of foster children in Cherokee County has reached a record high of 485.

Coinciding with the increase in children who need safe, loving, stable homes, our state is facing a critical shortage of foster families. There is an even more critical need for families willing to care for older children, children with complex needs, and sibling groups. If you have ever considered fostering children, please call my office, and we will provide resources that can help you determine if fostering children could be a good fit for your family.

Foster families are far more likely to succeed and sustain their service to children in need when they are part of a community that supports them. In May, I was honored to issue a proclamation to kick off the Foster Friendly Woodstock initiative. Alongside a spectacular organization called Georgia Kids Belong, the City of Woodstock is encouraging local businesses, faith communities, and nonprofits to support this initiative by establishing discounts and special offers for foster families in our community.

We aim to have a minimum of 36 businesses such as ice cream shops, beauty salons, breweries, and others in Woodstock participating in the initiative, and we are well on our way to hitting our target. If you own a business, or you know a business owner who would be interested in taking part, please contact me or Georgia Kids Belong to get involved. We are also planning to hold a public celebration of this endeavor later this calendar year, and we would love to see you there.

I'm excited to say that after our neighboring city of Acworth, Woodstock is just the second Georgia city to accomplish the worthy endeavor of Foster Friendly status. This initiative is a testament to our city's values of boldness, authenticity, and collaboration. Let's take this opportunity to support our neighbors who are serving the children of our community and make a lasting impact on the lives of foster children.