This Black History Month, local advocates, including ABC7 Chicago, are calling on communities to open their hearts and homes to children in foster care—especially children of color who are disproportionately represented in the system.

When children are removed from unsafe situations, foster families provide more than shelter, they offer stability, hope, and a chance to heal. The Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) reports that thousands of children entered foster care last year, and while more Black children are in care than children of other races, there are fewer Black-licensed and culturally diverse foster homes to meet these needs.

Understanding the Disparities

Racial disparities in child welfare don’t happen in a vacuum—they stem from deeply rooted systemic issues. We consulted one of Shelter’s Foster Care Caseworkers, C’Erra Mack, who shared these may include:

• Economic inequity: Many Black families live in low-income neighborhoods with limited access to quality education, mental health services, healthy food, and safe housing.
• Generational barriers: Stigma around therapy and lack of access to culturally responsive care contribute to repeated cycles of undiagnosed mental health needs and family stress.
• Survival mode: Families who have faced generational hardship often don’t have the same safety nets others take for granted.

These factors can increase the likelihood of child welfare involvement, not because of lack of love or care, but because of larger systemic barriers.

Culturally Competent Care in Foster Homes

We believe every child deserves to grow up in a home where their culture is understood and affirmed. While the need for foster families of color is apparent and vital, when that is not possible, C’Erra suggests other options to ensure this understanding for Black children in foster care:

• Cultural competency training for foster parents and case managers.
• Partnering with local Black business owners and community leaders to guide foster families on culturally specific needs.
• Providing resources for hair care, skin care, and identity-affirming practices that contribute to a child’s sense of dignity and belonging.

When foster parents are willing to learn and grow, children don’t just survive, they thrive.

Foster Parents Are a Lifeline

Our community needs foster parents, not just caregivers, but people willing to show up, learn, and walk with a child through healing and growth.

As local foster parents featured in ABC7’s Black History Month story say: “If you have space in your home, why not fill it with love?”

Every child deserves “two-way” love. You don’t need to be perfect; you just need to be willing.

Learn How to Become a Foster Parent
If you are interested in opening your heart and home to a youth in need or would like to learn more, please contact Shelter’s Licensing Specialist, Agata Nechev via email anechev@shelter-inc.org or call 847-590-6190 ext. 35. 

Together, we can ensure every child has a safe, supportive, and culturally affirming place to call home.