Foster parents often grapple with unique challenges, underscoring the crucial need to provide them with essential training, support and resources. T
To address this substantial need, Amerigroup Georgia offered complimentary training sessions on Sept. 23 at Monticello Presbyterian Church, led by foster-care expert Dr. John DeGarmo.
The discussion convened healthcare leaders and foster care parents from across Jasper and Putnam counties to raise awareness and gather support for foster care initiatives for both parents and children. DeGarmo shared his personal experiences and insights, aiming to inspire and empower attendees.
The event addressed the specific needs of the local foster care community and emphasized the importance of increased support services and enhanced training, as well as the availability of mental health resources.
“Training foster parents is a vital investment in the well-being and future of children in foster care, equipping caregivers with the tools they need to provide stability, support, and healing so that every child has the opportunity to thrive,” said Bhavini Solanki, director of Georgia Families 360° (GF360), a state Medicaid program covering children and youth in foster care, adoption assistance, and select youth in the custody of the Department of Juvenile Justice for healthcare benefits.
“We are proud to collaborate with Dr. DeGarmo, as he brings expertise in offering this training, alongside firsthand experience as a foster care parent, understanding the challenges of caring for vulnerable children,” Solanki added.
DeGarmo, founder and director of The Foster Care Institute and a TEDx Talk speaker, has cared for more than 60 children as a foster parent alongside his wife. He emphasized the pressing importance of addressing mental health for foster parents.
“The real pandemic right now is mental health, and foster parents need support services they’re not currently receiving,” DeGarmo stated. “The purpose of this event was to provide foster parents with the critical support they need to address trauma, burnout and stress.”
National data from the federal Adoption and Foster Care Analysis Reporting System reinforces the severity of the issue, indicating a significant shortage of licensed foster care homes in most states across the United States. Georgia, for instance, has seen a decline of nearly 3,000 licensed foster homes since 2019, highlighting a critical need for immediate action.
As the needs of youth in care continue to evolve, foster parents often feel unsupported and in need of additional resources. By delivering continuous education and emotional support through DeGarmo’s foster parent support network, Amerigroup Georgia aims to strengthen the foster care community and create a sustainable and growing network of caregivers.
“We will continue to travel across the state, offering free training sessions on trauma-informed care and other essential topics, especially in areas of the state with limited community resources,” DeGarmo said. “We’ll also establish foster parent support groups in locations that don’t currently have groups in place. By empowering foster parents with knowledge and support, we can enhance retention and encourage more individuals to become foster parents.”
Parents who lack local support, but require additional resources are encouraged to reach out to their Amerigroup care coordinator to ensure they receive the assistance they need. Since 2014, Amerigroup has served as the sole care management organization (CMO) in charge of coordinating care for children, youth, and young adults receiving adoption assistance, or for those involved in the juvenile justice system through GF360.
Amerigroup (amerigroup.com) is committed to working with foster families, community organizations, healthcare and social service providers and partners in state government to ensure foster parents and other individuals have access to the right services in the right settings.