Foster Care Month events planned

May is National Foster Care Month, a time to recognize that individuals, families and communities can each play a part in enhancing the lives of children and youth in foster care. In Connecticut, there are more than 4,000 children in foster care and hundreds more in need of a stable, loving home.

“This observance provides an opportunity for others to consider how they can help youth already in foster care, or help a child or youth in need of a home,” said Sharon Pendleton-Ponzani, LCSW, director, Community Based Family Services, Wheeler.

Wheeler’s Foster Care programs, funded by the Department of Children and Families, provide 24-hour support to families and youth and a higher level of support and resources to assist families in meeting the needs of youth and children placed in their homes. This team works closely with children and potential families to create a match in which both family and youth grow and thrive.

In preparation for National Foster Care Month, Wheeler’s Foster Care team will host a seasonal toy, arts and crafts, and sports equipment drive on Saturday, April 28 at Gnazzo’s Food Center, 73 East Street, Plainville from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Wheeler’s team also will host two Open House events during the month of May in Plainville and Waterbury: May 8, 2018, 88 East Street, Plainville, 6-8 p.m.; May 22, 50 Brookside Road, Waterbury, 6-8 p.m.

These no-obligation events are held every second and fourth Tuesday of the month and provide information about Wheeler’s foster care programs. Second Tuesday sessions take place at 88 East Street in Plainville, and the fourth Tuesday sessions are held at 50 Brookside Road in Waterbury.

For information about foster care opportunities, call 860.793.7277, or email FosterCarePrograms@Wheelerclinic.org or visit www.wheelerclinic.org/foster.