Haywood County children, youth need loving foster homes
The COVID pandemic may seem like ancient history to most western North Carolinians, but foster children in Haywood County are still feeling its ripple effects. Due to abuse, neglect or other adverse circumstances, they need stable and supportive temporary homes and there are not enough foster homes.
“At last count, we have over 130 children in foster care in Haywood County, but because of a shortage of licensed foster homes, fewer than 30 of them are currently living here,” said Jennifer Armellini, regional foster care manager for Lutheran Services Carolinas (LSC), a Salisbury-based nonprofit.
LSC provides a wide range of foster care programs in western North Carolina. It recruits foster parents for typical children and youth, as well as for those who need special care due to emotional, behavioral, medical and/or other needs. Foster children range in age from birth to young adulthood, and foster parents from all walks of life are welcome.
LSC also offers a Transitional Living Program for youth ages 15 to 21 who will soon age out of the foster care system. They are placed in licensed homes and receive personalized coaching to build independence skills.
LSC’s local foster care programs are funded in part by Dogwood Health Trust, an Asheville-based private foundation focused on improving the health and well-being of western North Carolinians.
To learn more about becoming a foster parent, please contact Whitney Burton at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 828.283.0126.
