The Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) in Los Angeles and Long Beach Councilmember Al Austin will host an informational event about becoming a foster or adoptive parent for abused and neglected children at Long Beach City College on Saturday, March 28 from 11:00AM to 1:00PM. This free event is open to the public in an effort to spread the word about the dire need for adoptive families in the South County.
DCFS receives over 10,000 reports of suspected child abuse and neglect every month. After social workers investigate, according to DCFS, the children are often removed from the situation in an effort to keep them safe. Whenever possible, the children are placed with relatives, but when there is no family available, a safe and loving home is needed. There are over 500 children in Los Angeles County waiting for a home.
Long Beach Councilmember Al Austin started the dialogue for this event when meeting with the DCFS for the first expo. Sari Grant, DCFS Recruitment Administrator, said in a statement, “Councilmember Austin helped us connect with various community organizations and so many agencies and organizations were ready to step up and help. It’s been wonderful to see how everyone cares about finding families for children in Los Angeles County.”
Representatives from the Long Beach Ministerial Alliance, the Long Beach Gay and Lesbian Center, Board of Supervisor Don Knabe’s office, Long Beach City College and local businesses will join Councilmember Austin to educate and inform attendees of what they can do to get started.
To RSVP or to learn how to become a foster or adoptive parent call (888) 811-1121 or visit ShareYourHeartLA by clicking here. Lunch will be provided.
The event is located at Long Beach City College, Building E, Nordic Lounge 4901 E. Carson St.
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