Broward Sheriff’s Office’s Cynthia Burroughs is a former foster care youth. Now a member of the ChildNet Circle of Supporters, an annual giving society dedicated to protecting abused, abandoned and neglected children, Burroughs’ mission is to give back in any way that she can and to find more everyday heroes.

May is National Foster Care Month, which recognizes foster parents, families, volunteers, mentors and child welfare advocates who help the children and youth find homes. During May, ChildNet renews its commitment to finding more loving, caring foster parents for the more than 600 children in the local child welfare system.

 While celebrations with special receptions are planned throughout the month to raise awareness and honor supporters, there is still more to be done.

 “Over the past year the number of children entering the child welfare system has increased in Broward County by 15 percent, which may not seem like much, but represents an additional 300 children,” said Nichole Anderson, ChildNet board secretary, also of Broward Sherriff’s Office. “As you can see, there is still a great need for foster parents to protect our community’s most vulnerable. From infants and children to teens, sibling groups and those with special needs, these kids deserve to be loved, and this month is a great opportunity for individuals and families to learn how they can make that happen and change a life.”

ChildNet encourages you to consider providing a temporary, but always nurturing and loving, foster home to children. Here is the step-by-step process on how you can become a foster parent:

1) Get your questions answered by calling ChildNet in Broward County at 954-414-6001.

2) You will then be linked to a foster home management agent who will guide you through the process to become a licensed foster parent.

3) You will attend an orientation and a 30-hour Model Approach to Partnership in Parenting (MAPP) training course. During this class, you will be introduced to the foster care system and learn how to care for a foster child.

4) While attending MAPP training, you will complete the other foster care licensing requirements, including a home study and background check.

5) Once the licensing process is completed, which generally takes four to six months, you will be prepared and ready to welcome foster children into your home.

 There is more information available at ChildNet.us