For over 53 years, Youth Haven has been a sanctuary for children who have faced the unimaginable pain of abuse, neglect, and homelessness. Our mission has always been to provide a temporary safe haven until a more permanent solution can be identified. Unfortunately, the reality we face today is starkly different. Children are staying longer in our care, with many remaining with us until they age out of the child welfare system.
In our emergency shelter, designed for stays of just two weeks, the average duration has now extended to 40 days, with some children residing with us for over a year. This extended stay is not just a number; it’s a testament to the increasing need for stable, loving homes. In Rob’s Cottage, our homeless teen shelter, the average stay is two years. Imagine being a teenager without a stable home, facing the uncertainty of tomorrow. The need for subsidized housing for those aging out of the program at 21 is critical. Unfortunately, many graduates of Rob’s Cottage must relocate to Broward County to find affordable housing, severing the vital support network they have formed while in our care.
In Jay’s and Jeanette’s, our high-needs shelters, the average stay is nine months. One young man, Evan, has been with us for over four years. Evan dreams of finding his forever home, but with only about 50 foster families in Collier County and over 500 children in the system, the odds are against him. Evan’s story is not unique; it is a heartbreaking reality faced by many children in our community. This shortage leaves the state with two difficult choices: leave the children at Youth Haven for extended periods or send them out of our area. Relocating children to other parts of Florida disrupts their lives and diminishes the chances of reunification with their families. Currently, 65% of foster kids will be reunified with their families, but this becomes increasingly difficult when children are placed far from their communities.
The urgency of this situation is underscored by alarming statistics: 68% of people in jail suffered abuse as a child, 71% of high school dropouts are fatherless, and 90% of children with five or more placements in the child welfare system end up in the justice system. Addressing these issues while children are young is far less costly than dealing with the consequences in adulthood. Sadly, foster parents typically last only 14 months, often citing a lack of support as the reason for ending their commitment. This is where our community can make a profound difference.
Youth Haven provides more than just basic necessities such as food, shelter, and clothing. We offer a true home and a comprehensive center of care for children arriving with higher needs. This includes therapeutic programs, trauma-informed care, and educational support. Our ability to provide this level of care is thanks to the incredible generosity of our highly philanthropic community. However, financial contributions alone cannot solve this crisis. We urgently need more foster families willing to open their homes and hearts to these vulnerable children.
To the families of Naples and Collier County, we appeal to your compassion and community spirit. By becoming foster parents, you can provide stability, care, and love to children who have faced unimaginable hardships. Your support can change their lives forever, giving them a chance to heal and grow in a nurturing environment. Imagine the impact of knowing you’ve helped a child find hope, stability, and a sense of belonging.
Our community’s support is crucial in addressing this foster care crisis. Together, we can ensure that every child has the opportunity to find their forever home and thrive. As we strive to be the finest congregate care facility in the country, we call on our community to join us in this mission. Together, we can ensure that every child has a chance to find their forever home and a brighter future.
If you are interested in learning more about becoming a foster family, visit www.childrensnetworkflorida.org or call 855-933-KIDS.