“Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and thea oppressed.” – Psalm 82:3 

May is both National Foster Care Month and Mental Health Awareness Month, two realities that are deeply connected. Across America, hundreds of thousands of children are living in foster care, many carrying the weight of trauma, instability, loss, and uncertainty about the future. Behind every number is a child who needs safety, consistency, guidance, and hope. 

390,000 

According to the Annie E. Casey Foundation, more than 390,000 children are currently in foster care across the United States. In Florida alone, between15,000 – 17,000 youth remain in out-of-home care each year. Many enter the system because of abuse, neglect, parental substance use, abandonment, or unsafe living conditions. While many foster families, caseworkers, teachers, churches, and organizations work tirelessly to help children heal, the reality is that the need continues to grow. 

One of the greatest needs right now is foster parents. Children need safe homes where they can experience stability, support, and care. But foster care is not just about housing. Youth also need relationships that extend beyond placement. Many foster youth experience repeated transitions, broken trust, and disrupted attachments. They need adults who consistently show up and stay involved. 

Consistent Caring Adults 

For many youth, especially teenagers preparing to age out of foster care, a mentor or coach may become one of the only stable relationships in their lives. A consistent adult who listens, encourages, teaches life skills, and walks alongside them can significantly impact their future. Research consistently shows that supportive relationships improve educational outcomes, emotional well-being, employment opportunities, and long-term stability. 

The Need Continues 

There is also an urgent need for transition support and independent living resources. Each year, thousands of young adults age out of foster care with little or no support system. Many struggle to secure housing, employment, transportation, healthcare, or emotional support. Nationally, outcomes remain concerning. Youth who age out of foster care experience disproportionately high rates of homelessness, unemployment, incarceration, and mental health struggles. 

This is not because they lack value or potential. Often, it is because they have had to survive situations no child should endure. 

At Advance the Faith, we believe foster youth deserve more than temporary support. They deserve consistent relationships, guidance, life-readiness development, and hope for the future. Through mentoring, coaching, trauma-informed care, and faith-centered support, we are committed to helping youth move toward stability, healing, and purpose. 

If you are considering becoming a foster parent, mentor, volunteer, or supporter, this is the time to step in. A young person’s future may be shaped by one caring adult who chooses to stay involved. 

If you are currently in foster care, aging out, or trying to navigate life on your own, we want you to know you are not alone. Contact us. We may be able to connect you with a mentor, coach, or additional community resources to help support your next steps. 

Crisis and Support Resources 

• National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988  

• Childhelp National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-4-A-CHILD  

• Extended Foster Care Resources: FL Department of Children & Families 

• Foster Care and Youth Resources: Child Welfare Information Gateway  

• Foster Care Statistics and Research: Annie E. Casey Foundation  

Next Steps 

At Advance the Faith, we are committed to walking alongside foster youth through mentorship, life-readiness support, trauma-informed care, and consistent relationships that reflect the heart of Christ. We believe healing and transformation are possible when youth are surrounded by people who show up consistently with patience, truth, and hope. 

If you want to become a mentor, partner with our mission, support youth transitioning into adulthood, or learn how you can help, contact us today at info@advancethefaith.org. And if you are a young person trying to navigate life on your own, we encourage you to reach out. You do not have to do this alone.