The Van Wert County Courthouse

Friday, Mar. 29, 2024

Marsh Foundation honors foster parents

Marsh Foundation information

One of the most meaningful things one can do in life to help a child is to become a foster parent. Last week, The Marsh Foundation honored several families who’ve done just that. The annual Foster Parent Appreciation Dinner was hosted by The First Church of God in Van Wert. May is Foster Care Appreciation Month.

A total of 10 families were recognized for their dedication to The Marsh’s foster care team. Some were recognized for their first year of service, while others have been with the program for more than seven.

“Our foster parents are much appreciated for their hard work and the care that they provide every day for our children,” said Laura Beckett-Avery, foster care supervisor. “As our foster care division continues to grow, foster parents are badly needed to provide children in need with wonderful families.”

Marsh logo 8-2010The Marsh Foundation in Van Wert offers a continuum of care that includes a foster care program. Last year, more than 100 children were turned away from the program because of a lack of foster homes. The Marsh believes all children have the right to love, protection and to be cared for a by a committed family. Those who have an interest in becoming a foster parent can call 419.238.KIDS or visit www.marshfoundation.org/helpkids for more information.

All foster parents go through extensive training before a child is placed and are required to undergo continuing training to maintain their license. Foster parents can be married couples or single individuals. Consultants are assigned to each foster parent and are available 24 hours, seven days a week. They help create the youth’s treatment plan, offer support and are available in crisis situations. Foster parents are substantially reimbursed for costs associated with caring for a foster child.

The Marsh Foundation is a not-for-profit children’s services agency that provides behavioral treatment in a variety of settings. Services include group homes, foster care, an intensive treatment program and independent living.

Located in Van Wert, the organization’s group homes are licensed for up to 36 children ages 7-17, it offers an on-campus school for grades 2-12 and provides a variety of clinical services to group home residents, foster care children and community members.

POSTED: 05/30/15 at 6:53 am. FILED UNDER: Youth