FOSTER HOMES play an integral part in today’s society. Unfortunately, Eastern Ohio is experiencing a drastic shortage in foster families.

Harrison County is the poster child for such a pressing problem. Currently, there are a mere four such families in the county. Ideal numbers would have that total between 10 and 15. Even if 15 families were on board, they would face a daunting task as Harrison County had nearly 400 reports of child abuse last year.

Compounding matters is that the county lacks a day-care center. A lack of a day-care center deters families from getting involved with foster care. Additionally, only one foster home, which recently adopted three children, is willing to take teenagers, leading to them often being placed in out-of-county group homes.

It is obvious that Harrison County is in dire straits in regards to foster parenting. More families are desperately needed.

Harrison County recently joined with Carroll, Jefferson and Columbiana counties to receive a grant to campaign for foster families. Billboards and flyers are being used to reach out to the community. Social Services will be handing out flyers with information for potential foster homes at the Harrison County Fair this week.

Belmont County’s plight is somewhat healthier, boasting 30 foster homes.

Currently, there are 50 Belmont County children in kinship care and foster homes.

Belmont County Foster Care Case Manager Billy Marinacci said the number of foster homes is fluid, due to families leaving the program after adopting children or new families being licensed.

“We always need more homes because we don’t know from day to day what need we have,” Marinacci said. “We may have a need tomorrow for five kids and then for months not get any placements.

“The issue now, not just in Belmont County, is substance abuse that parents are going through and that in turn creates problems in the home,” he explained. “There is a need for children to be given a safe home.”

Foster homes are needed more than ever before. We encourage all those who could volunteer their time, care and passion to make a positive difference in the lives of children in need, please do so.