LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — May is National Foster Care Month, and in Clark County, there are around 3,000 minors currently in foster care, with about 100 children available for adoption.
Local foster care and adoption advocates say they are bracing for an increase in the number of children needing foster homes as the state begins to reopen.
However, COVID-19 has impacted the adoption and foster care process.
Companies offering help during coronavirus pandemic
According to Focus on the Family Program Director, Dr. Sharen Ford, the pandemic has put a bigger focus on making sure a home is safe before a child is brought in.
"It is more complicated; families want to make sure their own homes are protected, but they also want to be available for those kids that are in need," Ford said. "Parents are disinfecting their homes, taking their temperature. So, its safety precautions on their side and the agency side before a child comes into the home."
The Clark County Department of Family Services said it has noticed during the pandemic an increased interest in adults to become foster parents.
"There are very different ways that you can become involved in the child welfare system and support these children," said Tim Burch, human services administrator in Clark County. "You can donate to the system, volunteer, mentor, or become a CASA."
Burch also confirmed that foster parent training is currently available online, and the Department of Family Services can also be contacted at 702-455-0800.
