When a child enters foster care, the difference between hope and hardship often comes down to one thing: whether a foster family is available to provide a safe and loving home.
The Department of Health and Welfare (DHW), alongside dedicated nonprofits, community leaders, and foster care advocates, is working hard to increase the number of foster families in Idaho and reduce the number of children who need care. DHW’s goals aren’t just about numbers—they’re about building a system where foster families feel supported, children feel safe, and the community plays a role in making a difference.
This week, two important Treasure Valley events will shine a spotlight on foster care. Whether you’re a foster parent, an advocate, or simply someone who cares about children in need, your presence at these events can help bring awareness, spark change, and inspire new families to step forward.
So mark your calendar:
- Wednesday, Feb. 26, 7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. – Foster Care Awareness Day at the Capitol
- Sunday, March 2, 4-7 p.m. – Foster Care Festival at Maker Shop Boise
Foster Care Awareness Day at Idaho Capitol
| What: Foster Care Awareness Day at the Idaho Capitol When: Wednesday, Feb. 26, 7:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. (agenda at link above, proclamation signing at 10 a.m. in Lincoln Auditorium) Where: Idaho State Capitol, Boise (also livestreamed on Idaho Public Television) |
Every year, lawmakers make decisions that impact foster children and families—but they can’t do it in isolation. They need to hear from those who have lived it, those who have fostered, and those who are working daily to make the system better.
That’s what Foster Care Awareness Day at the Capitol is all about. Foster care alumni, parents, advocates, and providers from across Idaho will gather to educate legislators, share personal experiences, and discuss solutions to better serve foster youth.
One of the most powerful moments of the day will be the signing of a Foster Care Awareness Proclamation by the Governor. This public recognition sends a strong message: Idaho is committed to improving foster care and supporting the families who step up.
Foster Care Festival this Sunday
| What: Foster Care Festival When: Sunday, March 2, 4-7 p.m. Where: Maker Shop Boise, 6883 W Overland Rd, Boise Special guest speaker: DHW Director Alex Adams |
For every heartbreaking challenge in foster care, there’s also a story of resilience, love, and community stepping up. That’s what the Foster Care Festival is about—a celebration of the foster families who make a difference and an invitation for more people to get involved.
This free, family-friendly event is a great way to connect with the foster care community, learn how you can help, and enjoy a fun evening with food, activities, and giveaways.
DHW Director Alex Adams will share insights into the state’s efforts to recruit and support more foster families and improve outcomes for children in care.
Why these events matter
Every child deserves to be safe, loved, and supported. But the reality is, there aren’t enough foster families to meet the need. Events like Foster Care Awareness Day at the Capitol and the Foster Care Festival aren’t just gatherings—they are moments of action, opportunities for education, and stepping stones toward a better foster care system.
The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare is dedicated to strengthening the health, safety, and independence of Idahoans. Learn more at healthandwelfare.idaho.gov.
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