Sean and Jessica Stout, of Williamson, Mingo County, say having their six kids removed by Child Protective Services was devastating. But it made their family stronger, thanks in part to foster parents John and Amy Williamson who cared for the Stout children while the Stouts stabilized their living situation. Their case shows how Aetna, Mission West Virginia, the West Virginia Department of Human Services and foster agencies across the state have partnered for an urgent We Foster WV campaign aimed at finding good foster homes for older children and teens.
The state s We Foster WV campaign in partnership with Aetna, Mission West Virginia and foster and adoption agencies across the state kicked off a month ago. Hundreds of prospective families have responded with interest. Here, several teens describe the conditions they ve been placed in, including emergency shelters, hotels and group homes when there s no foster home available. The state and foster/adoption advocates say the need for foster homes is urgent, especially for those willing to take in older kids and teens and to push for reunification.