The Hidden Children of America

It is widely assumed that orphans and fatherless children only exist in other countries where parents have died as a result of disease, natural disasters, war, or poverty. However, America has a population of vulnerable children who are most often hidden from our daily lives. These kids are regularly found in the foster care system. Many of them have experienced heinous abuse, neglect, abandonment, and trauma.

The process by which a child enters the foster care system, though in most cases necessary, is nevertheless traumatic and disruptive in the child’s development. When a child is removed from his or her home by child protective services (CPS), the child enters the foster care system. CPS will determine whether or not the child can safely return to their home or a next of kin. If there are no suitable caregivers available, then CPS will look for an appropriate placement outside of the home. 

The foster care system in the United States is one of the most complex and challenging systems in the world. It is made up of thousands of children, many who have been abused or neglected, and all of whom are in need of a stable home. Every year, more than 400,000 children are placed in foster homes. This means that many families across the country open their hearts and homes to these young people and provide them with love and support as they grow up. But there are still too many children who need help, who cannot find homes where they will be safe and loved.

How can we help? The answer is simple: by advocating for those who cannot advocate for themselves. Every child deserves love and support as they grow into adulthood—even if they were born into difficult circumstances. That's why it's so important that we come together as a community to promote awareness about this issue, support organizations that provide services to foster children, and raise funds for programs that help at-risk children find their forever families.