MANSFIELD — Richland County Children Services is launching a community campaign on Monday to address an urgent need for local foster parents.
The initiative, titled “This Seat is Waiting for Someone Who Can Open Their Home to a Child in Need,” utilizes symbolic empty chairs placed throughout the community to represent the space a foster child needs in a home.
“We are inviting local businesses, libraries, faith communities, and organizations to partner with us by allowing RCCS to place a campaign chair at your location,” said Brigitte Coles, community engagement supervisor for the agency.
“Each chair will include a flyer with information about fostering, along with a QR code that community members can scan to connect directly with our foster/adoption department. From there, they can begin the process of becoming a foster parent or request more information,” she said.
The Mansfield/Richland County Public Library and the YMCA of North Central Ohio are among the local organizations participating in the initiative, which runs through Sept. 30.
“Their participation will help raise awareness, spark conversations, and inspire individuals who may be considering fostering — or who have never realized how great the need truly is,” Coles said.
Foster parents provide temporary homes for children while their families work toward reunification, while other children await permanent adoption.
“Our caseworkers work tirelessly to protect and support children in crisis, but they cannot do it alone,” said Nicole Foulks, assistant director of Richland County Children Services. “Foster parents are essential partners in giving children the stability and hope they deserve.”
The agency provides training, financial support and guidance for all licensed foster parents.
Residents interested in hosting a campaign chair or learning more about becoming a foster parent can call Richland County Children Services at 419-774-4100 or visit richlandcountychildrenservices.org.