A close family friend, a community member, and the great aunt of a baby yet born. These are just some of the foster parents at Lutheran Social Services of Illinois (LSSI) who answered the call to make a difference. May is National Foster Parent Month. As the largest private provider of foster care in Illinois, LSSI proudly honors its foster parents who open their homes and hearts to children in need. Here are a few of their stories.
Relative Foster Parent Jennifer and her husband became foster parents to their great nephew when he was two weeks old—but the journey began earlier. “It started before the baby was born,” she said. “You don’t take that question lightly—‘Can you foster?’” When a child comes into care, LSSI first looks for relatives who may be willing to step in. They had time to consider the decision together. “I love my family and wanted to help,” Jennifer said. When the baby arrived at their home a day earlier than expected, LSSI staff were there to assist. “They talked us through everything,” she recalled. “It’s such a gift to help, care, and nurture.”
Fictive Kin Adults with an established relationship to a child—a teacher or family friend—are known as “fictive kin.” They’re often asked after family to consider fostering. With three grown sons, an adolescent daughter, and a background in childcare, Sharron and her husband felt ready. “It’s a big decision, but I’ve always had a passion for children,” she said.
Sharron especially values LSSI’s training opportunities. “The very first class they signed me up for was trauma-informed care,” she recalled. “I would recommend it to anyone.”
Traditional Foster Care “There are so many kids who need homes locally,” said Lisa. After connecting with an LSSI licensing representative, she and her husband thought things over. Eventually, they moved forward in the licensing process. Illustrating the need for foster parents, they received a placement almost immediately and eventually accepted a second child who was reunified with her parents.
“Everyone worries about getting attached,” Lisa said. “It’s hard, but that is the goal.” Her advice? “Reach out. Talk to a licensing representative. They have a wealth of knowledge. Talk to a foster parent. There are struggles—but there’s also so much joy.”
Watch foster parents share their experiences on our YouTube channel, including LSSI’s “Coffee Break with Melissa” podcast.
