Outstanding foster parents honored by children's services
On Saturday, Aug. 4, the Catoosa County Division of Family & Children Services (DFCS) celebrated foster and adoptive parents with a picnic at Gilbert-Stephenson Park in Fort Oglethorpe.
Catoosa County currently has 13 approved foster and adoptive homes and 57 children in foster care.
“It was an opportunity to fellowship and show gratitude for the immense work done and was supported by the Catoosa County DFCS board. Foster and adoptive parents provide one of the mostneeded services to children who have been abused and/or neglected by opening their homes and hearts,” said Jaime Stafford, Catoosa County DFCS director.
Three families were recognized for their efforts this year, Stafford said.
Bill and Vickie Robbins were awarded “Foster Parent of the Year” for their love, compassion, and diligence in caring for the children in their home. “Family is their top priority, evidenced by their relentless advocacy for children while expecting nothing in return,” Stafford said.
Ronald and Lisa Willkomm received the “Partnership Parent of the Year” award for working in tandem with birth parents of children placed in their home. “They participated in meetings, extended visitations, and work together regarding medical and educational appointments,” Stafford said. “Mr. and Mrs. Willkomm can also always be relied on to answer the phone at all hours to help out in an emergency. Last, Mrs. Willkomm advocated for supplements for foster parents to assist in caring for the children in their home.”
“Adoptive Parent of the Year” went to Jennifer Scroggins. “Ms. Scroggins is one of many wonderful adoptive families in Catoosa County,” Stafford said. “She has adopted siblings and taken on additional special needs children for DFCS. Ms. Scroggins has demonstrated strength and grace through her experiences of fostering and adoption. Her patience and love for those with special needs is not matched by many.
“Catoosa County DFCS is fortunate to have these amazing families to serve children,” Stafford said. “We are always looking for families willing to be a foster or adoptive parent. If you are interested in partnering to foster or adopt, please call 1-877-210- KIDS and find out how you can help support a child.
“A special thank you goes to our donors of our door prizes for the event,” Stafford said. “They were: Walmart, Décor Classics, Home Depot, Farm to Fork, Subway, Pals Car Wash, Northwest GA Bank, Lisa’s Gold & Diamonds, Express Oil Change, Office Depot, BBQ Shack, and Park Place Restaurant.”