foster parents

PCSAO’s work is informed by data and information; therefore, we are proud to present this 12th edition of the PCSAO Factbook, 2015-2016. The Factbook is designed as a resource for policymakers, the media, federal, state and local partners, and those interested in the safety and stability of Ohio’s children and families.

In the summer of 2012, Ben and Jessica Schumacher decided to become foster parents. Childless and facing fertility issues, they decided it made more sense to open their home to children who needed one than to pursue more medical options. Less than two years later, they had a family with six children.

The two work hand in hand. About 70 percent of our adoptions are by foster families. These are people who have come to know and love the children in their care, and they want to make it a permanent arrangement once the court decides the child cannot be safely returned home. The best way to keep our adoption pipeline full is to have plenty of foster parents.

HCJFS is still distributing more than 100 bikes donated by “The Bike Lady.” Kate Koch of Columbus became the Bike Lady in 2008 after an impromptu effort to buy bikes for kids in foster care. She believes bikes offer exercise …

I was extremely encouraged to see 18 caring individuals attend the first Higher Education Mentioning Initiative (HEMI) training this past Saturday. There was quite a mix of people, including many teachers and social workers. One woman, who is now a …

I attended the State of the County speech yesterday by Commissioner David Pepper. What a nice event! While the financial state of the county is tenuous right now, it was nice to hear of all the great things that are …