The month of June is Family Reunification Month!  While KVC works to safely reunite and strengthen families across the U.S. (particularly in Nebraska, Kentucky, West Virginia and Washington, D.C.), here are a few highlights from our work in Kansas.

The Kansas Department for Children and Families produced this short video depicting four families that have reunited after their children were removed and placed in foster care. The Daniels and Strahler families benefited directly from services provided by KVC family preservation workers. Kellie Hans-Reid, Director of Intensive In-Home Services at KVC, also shares a story of hope.

According to a press release from the Kansas Department for Children and Families, there are approximately 6,000 children in foster care in Kansas. Nearly 60 percent of them will be reunited with their families.

You can show your support for families during Family Reunification Month in the following ways:

• Offer transportation to meetings, court hearings, mental health appointments, etc.
• Make your phone available to birth parents who do not have access to a phone
• Provide mentoring and simply serve as a friend
• Allow the parents to feel connected through community gatherings to let them know they are not alone
• Provide a list of support groups
• Provide snacks and activities for birth parents to take to visits

For more ideas to support birth parents, click here.

KVC is hosting several events to celebrate families who have worked hard to reunify with their kids. The annual Families United celebration will take place on Friday, June 27 at Gage Park in Topeka, KS. The event honors families that have successfully reintegrated after facing significant difficulties, and includes a carnival-themed picnic, games and prizes. To learn more about the event, click here.