As states move towards reopening, what supports would help you and your family make that transition most successful?
Family Voices United asked current and former foster youth, parents, and kinship and relative caregivers:
“As states move towards reopening, what supports would help you and your family make that transition most successful?"
Some key themes that came out of the responses we received to this question:
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Families need clear, cohesive, and consistent messaging on COVID-19 safety, precautions, and updates.
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Kinship caregivers need respite care resources and options and access to technology for virtual services like mental health and self-care workshops, tutoring sessions.
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Emergency supports like COVID testing, sanitizing wipes, masks, SNAP, virtual health visits, and mental health services are essential and should continue as states re-open.
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Former Foster Youth currently need assistance navigating basic needs like access to affordable housing, food, and mental health services.
How to use this paper
Our hope is as the many states in the United States consider reopening after the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, policymakers and administrators need to consider how to reopen in a way that keeps families safe. The voices of kinship caregivers, birth parents, current and former foster youth will provide insight into what strategies and supports will be most successful in reopening society to keep our most vulnerable families physically, mentally, financially secure, and cared for. If you are interested in using the quotes or perspective contained in this document or if you would like to bring young people, parents, and relative caregivers to your event or project, email the Family Voices United team at info@familyvoicesunited.org or call 503.717.1552.