The foster care system in Central New York is a crucial safety net for children who cannot remain in their homes due to abuse, neglect, or other family crises. With hundreds of children entering care each year, the need for compassionate foster families is greater than ever. There is a particular demand for homes willing to take in teens, sibling groups, and children with special needs, as these placements can be the most challenging to fill. In addition to more foster homes, the system requires greater access to resources such as trauma-informed training for caregivers, mental health services for children, and support networks for foster and kinship families. Organizations like ours are working to bridge these gaps by recruiting new foster families, providing ongoing support, and advocating for systemic improvements to ensure every child in care has the opportunity to thrive.