Foster families do not need applause. They need presence. They need people who show up, not with grand gestures but with steady, ordinary acts of care. If you have ever wondered how to support foster kids and families, the answer is often simpler than you think, and it starts right in your own church or neighborhood. Michelle Hamson writes stories rooted in the real experiences of foster care, faith, and families who refuse to give up.

Why foster families need community support

Foster parenting is not meant to be done in isolation. These families open their homes to children who have experienced trauma, loss, and instability. The emotional weight is heavy, and the practical demands are constant. Yet many foster families feel invisible within their own communities.

What foster families often face:

• Unpredictable schedules: Court dates, therapy appointments, and visits with biological families
• Emotional exhaustion: Supporting children through grief, behavioral challenges, and adjustment
• Financial strain: Many expenses are not fully covered by reimbursements
• Isolation: Friends and extended family may not understand the unique challenges

According to the Children’s Bureau, there are over 400,000 children in foster care in the United States at any given time. Behind every statistic is a child who needs stability, and a family who needs support.

Five practical ways to help

You do not have to become a foster parent to make a difference. Here are five meaningful ways your church or community can step in.

1. Provide meals during transitions

When a new child arrives, everything changes overnight. A meal train during the first few weeks can relieve stress and show the family they are not alone. Keep it simple: home-cooked meals, gift cards, or groceries left at the door.

2. Offer respite care

Foster parents rarely get breaks. If you are able to watch the kids for an afternoon or evening, even occasionally, you give the parents space to rest, reconnect, or handle appointments. Many states offer training programs for respite providers.

3. Create a support closet

Children often enter foster care with very little. A church closet stocked with clothing, toiletries, school supplies, and comfort items like stuffed animals or blankets can meet urgent needs quickly. Organize by size and season for easy access.

4. Be a consistent presence

Foster kids have often experienced broken promises and inconsistent adults. Showing up regularly, whether as a Sunday school teacher, mentor, or family friend, builds trust over time. Do not underestimate the power of being someone who stays.

5. Pray and check in

Sometimes the most meaningful support is simply asking, “How are you really doing?” and listening without offering advice. Let foster families know they are being prayed for. A quick text or note can go a long way on hard days.

What churches can do collectively

Beyond individual acts, churches can create systems of support that make a lasting impact.

Ideas for church-wide involvement:

Train children’s ministry volunteers on trauma-informed care

Partner with local foster agencies to host informational sessions

Designate a foster care ministry team to coordinate support

Celebrate Foster Care Awareness Month in May with special services or events

Be the Support That Changes Everything

Learning how to support foster kids and families does not require special training or extraordinary resources. It requires willingness, consistency, and a heart that says, “You are not alone here.” Small, steady acts of care can change the trajectory of a child’s life, and they can remind foster families that their sacrifice is seen. To explore stories of resilience, faith, and found family, check out Beneath the Pedestal and visit Michelle Hamson’s official site.