National Foster Care Month: Every Child’s Journey Matters

Every May, National Foster Care Month gives us an opportunity — and a responsibility — to shine a light on the journeys of children and youth in foster and kinship care.

At Cobbled Streets, we know these journeys are not easy. They are often filled with uncertainty, heartbreak, and change that no child should have to face alone. National Foster Care Month isn't just about recognition; it's a call to action. It's about lifting up voices that are too often unheard and reminding our communities that these kids deserve more — more love, more stability, more hope.

Seeing Beyond the System

It’s easy to hear the words “foster care” and think of it as just another system. But behind that system are real children — bright, brave, beautiful kids — whose lives are deeply impacted by the circumstances around them.

Awareness is the first step toward change. When we understand the realities foster youth face, we can do better. We can build bridges. We can show up. We can create the kinds of positive childhood experiences that research shows make all the difference — safe relationships, stable environments, emotional support, and opportunities to simply be kids.

What Foster Youth Need Isn’t Complicated

It’s easy to assume that fixing broken systems is too overwhelming. But the truth is: many of the most powerful supports a child needs aren’t complicated at all.

They need someone to show up at their game.

They need a chance to try something new, like art class or karate.

They need to feel seen, celebrated, and safe.

They need the kinds of experiences many of us took for granted — a birthday party, a weekend outing, a coach who believes in them.

At Cobbled Streets, we believe that no child’s future should be defined by their past. We believe in building belonging, in sparking joy, in helping kids dream bigger dreams.

How You Can Help During National Foster Care Month

Raising awareness is powerful — but action matters too. Here are a few simple ways to make a difference this month:

• Educate Yourself: Learn about the foster care system, trauma, and the realities youth face. Awareness fuels compassion.

• Volunteer or Donate: Support organizations like Cobbled Streets that are making an impact right here in Colorado.

• Spread the Word: Share resources, stories, and facts on your social media to inspire others to care.

• Advocate: Raise your voice for better policies, more support for families, and equitable opportunities for all children.

  
  

This May, we honor the resilience of every child in foster and kinship care. We stand beside them on their cobbled streets — ready to catch them when they fall, celebrate when they soar, and walk beside them as they build lives full of joy, meaning, and connection.

Because awareness isn’t just about seeing the hard stuff. It’s about seeing the beauty, too — and doing whatever we can to help it grow.