News Release
July 8, 2008
Batavia, Ohio. Have you considered the prospect of becoming a foster parent? If so, now is the time to take the next step. “As the popular athletic commercial encourages, just do it!” says an enthusiastic Dennis Fehlinger. He and his wife, along with many others who are foster parents in Clermont County, share their experiences and answer many of the questions you might have about foster parenting in a free, 29 minute video, produced by the Clermont County Office of Public Information, in cooperation with the Clermont Department of Job and Family Services (DJFS).
“We have a critical need for foster parents,” said Clermont DJFS Director Tim McCartney. “In 2004, we had 214 children who had to be removed from their homes because of abuse or neglect. Today, we have over 350 children in county foster care. Unfortunately, because we have a shortage of foster parents, we have to send many of those children to homes outside the county.”
“It breaks my heart to see these children who are already having a tough time, taken away from their schools, friends, and extended families to foster families in other counties,” said Clermont DJFS Foster Care Supervisor Erica Boller.
“As a police officer, I see children living in unbelievable situations,” said John Pryor. In the video, he and his wife, Brandy, discuss how they have enjoyed caring for these children and watching their progress as they receive love and support.
“If you have room in your heart and in your home, I urge you to consider becoming a foster parent,” said DJFS Children’s Protective Services Director Anne Arbaugh. “We have training opportunities and veteran foster parents to serve as your mentors.”
For a free copy of the video, Somebody Knocks, or to learn more about becoming a foster parent, call (513) 732-7173. The video will soon be available online.
Pictured above: Mary and Bill Stearns enjoy spending time with their children, who were once their foster children.
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For additional information, please contact Clermont County Communications Director Kathy Lehr at (513) 732-7597.