so, I witnessed the testimony of an Envoy today who took the big step of becoming a foster parent - along with his wife they have cared for at least 18 children so far (10 of which still go to their kids club at the corps to maintain contact).
So, a few days ago I blogged about the 28,000 kids who need homes in Australia...
It's interesting because here (like in Canada) the government overhauled it's system for foster kids from residential faciliaties to foster homes... in one swoop (both in Canada and Aus.) The Salvation Army's care for children was over. In Australia even the history of our care is wrapped in some shame... but it was also filled with some glorious care for kids who the world has given up on...
It only makes sense that if we are serious about stopping cycles of violence and the results of social oppression we need to start with kids.
Now a few years ago in Canada I asked the TYS (territorial youth secretary) how Sunday school stats are going... they were declining (seriously)... so, I wondered if instead of catering to middle class communities - trying to compete for the attention of the kids there... perhaps we should aim our resources and time to the kids that society has discarded... how 'bout a kids program strategy that reaches those kids... sounds like the gospel to me...
Commissioner Joe Noland is a giant in this area... he has championed the cause of the neglected kids in cities for decades and is leading the charge with the program Sonday's Cool
If you haven't checked out the amazing film 'altars in the street' you really ought to... it can convince you to begin! Let's just do something...
3 comments:
Hi Danielle,
You might not know that despite the demise of large residential institutions, The Salvation Army is by no means finished with the out of home care sector. I heard recently that 3 out of 4 service awards presented in Melbourne went to staff of Salvation Army services. I believe Westcare, Eastcare and the South-East services networks all have programs in this area.
Regards, JDK
As you know Danielle I am with you on this!!!!
In the USA we had 550,000 kids ready for adoption. This is the great call of the church to rise up and put foster care out of business around the world! Let's pray so many in the church sign up to do foster care that we have parents waiting for kids as the need arises!
Yes we must work with families to stop the violence but lets, as you and Nike say, Just do it!!!
jane
PS I have a few success stories!
A great way to get involved is by doing indigenous foster care
www.vacca.org. Follow the link to:
KOORIE CULTURAL PLACEMENT AND SUPPORT PROGRAM
There is obviously a need to be culturally relevant and link a child with the local Koori community but they are desperate for carers!
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