Eau Claire County Department of Human Services (ECCDHS) proudly recognizes Foster Care Appreciation Month this May, honoring the foster parents, kinship caregivers, and community partners who show up every day to care for children and youth. Currently, 81 children and youth from Eau Claire County are in out-of-home care. Behind each number is a young person whose experiences have shaped how they see the world—often through the lens of trauma, loss, and disrupted relationships. The work of the Department, alongside caregivers, is to help restore a sense of felt safety, build trust, and create meaningful connections.
A continued focus remains on older youth—particularly those from hard places—who are placed in residential facilities outside of their home community. While these settings can provide needed services, they can also limit opportunities for connection and a sense of belonging.
“We know that healing happens in relationships,” said Nicholas Stabenow-Schneider, Social Work Manager at ECCDHS. “Our youth need more than services—they need people who are willing to connect, stay present, and help them feel safe enough to grow.”
Eau Claire County is actively seeking individuals and families who are willing to support high-acuity youth, including teens who may require a deeper level of commitment and understanding. Throughout the month of May, the Department encourages community members to:
- Thank and uplift foster and kinship caregivers
- Learn about trauma-informed care and TBRI principles
- Consider becoming a foster parent or support provider
- Advocate for youth and the importance of relationship-based care
- For more information on the unit YOU CAN CLICK HERE.
