Imagine Being a Kid Separated from Family Right Now.
We will be able to increase the frequency and creativity of our support to youth who are in foster homes and residential placements while they are waiting for adoption - they are more isolated than ever right now - you can help them sustain hope.
Ampersand Families recruits and supports permanent families for older youth, and champions practices in adoption and permanency that restore belonging, dignity and hope.
Right now there are about 1,000 Minnesota children and teens awaiting adoption. Our team works with youth age 10 and older to help move them from temporary foster or residential placements into permanent families. Our Permanency Specialists help youth hold onto hope, even when it's really hard to do so. We are committed to helping build a circle of support around our youth - knowing that relationships with important adults are something every teen needs.
We work with people who want to adopt a youth they already know (usually a relative, like a grandchild, niece or nephew) and people who want to step up to adopt a youth from foster care who they do not already know. Whether a relative or non-relative family, prospective adoptive parents can expect a strong partner in Ampersand Families - One of our hallmarks is our commitment to providing support for as long as youth and adoptive families need it - no matter how long ago they adopted.
Children and teens in foster and residential care are especially hard hit by the COVID-19 crisis. They are separated from family and generally not even having visits at this time. Youth of color are disproportionately represented among youth awaiting adoption, and because COVID-19 is hitting their communities with a particular vengeance, our youth are also managing the added burden of fear and uncertainty regarding the health of family and friends.
No child should have to experience this crisis without the support of a permanent family.