Family & Children's Aid (FCA) is a community-based, non-profit organization that offers services to heal and support children and families in crisis. Founded in 1809, the agency has been a refuge for abused and neglected children who are without protection, without parental support and even without hope. More than just offering food, clothing and shelter, FCA strives to heal and support Connecticut's children and families by meeting a higher level of need and teaching them about respect, compassion and trust.

Foster care parents are needed. On any given day there are approximately 2,000 children in Connecticut waiting for a loving foster home. Many of these children will ‘age out’ of the system with no permanent relationships to sustain or encourage them as they enter young adulthood. Nearly 40% of American adults have considered being a resource for a child; if just one in every 500 of these adults acted, every waiting child would have a supportive connection.

Support provided by FCA includes:

•  Free training courses
• A team of professionals offering support, available 24/7
• $55/day tax-free reimbursement/stipend to cover the cost of food, clothing and other basic needs
• Medical insurance provided through the state

In the Children’s Charter drawn up by the agency in 1892 it reads, “For every child, a home,” which still remains the organization’s mission today. Most who commit to foster a child report that they receive much more than they give as they make a lifetime of difference for a child.

For more information on becoming a Foster Parent call 888.YOU.BELONG or visit fcaweb.org.