Foster Families Are Due a Thank You

Re “Foster Care’s Shame,” editorial, May 8: Yes, there are problems in the foster care system, but I believe there should also be an editorial titled “Foster Care’s Pride.” This is National Foster Care Month, when we should be thanking everyone who takes in children who are neglected, physically battered or emotionally traumatized. As president of the foster care association in Orange County, I know that our 600-plus foster families are trying their hardest to provide a loving, secure, temporary placement for these children.

Every day we battle the “system” to try to get the services we need for these children, and, thankfully, Orange County Children and Family Services is trying to work with us despite its diminishing resources. We all recognize the problems you mentioned and deplore the horror stories. But we also must recognize that many children are returned to functioning families, adopted by new parents or emancipated with support, thanks to their foster family experience.

David Reger

Fullerton