OLYMPIA –On Thursday, February 13, the Washington House of Representatives passed legislation sponsored by Rep. Lisa Callan, D-Issaquah, to encourage relationships between parents and foster caregivers. House Bill 2525 creates a pilot Family Connections Program that encourages ally relationships between foster caregivers and parents to reduce stress on kids in the foster system.
“This bill helps us change how we think about supporting children in the foster care system,” said Callan. “By encouraging positive mentorship relationships between foster caregivers and parents we can improve outcomes and reduce trauma. When these relationships exist, children feel more cared for and nurtured, and families feel more supported. This means permanency and stability happen sooner, which is everyone’s ultimate goal.”
Historically, there are roughly 10,000 children in Washington’s foster care system. HB 2525 will now be considered by the Senate.
“It doesn’t matter who you are, where you come from, or where you live, we want our kids to thrive,” continued Callan. “We must do what we can to give our children the best chance for a healthy future. I am proud that this billed has passed the House and look forward to passing other youth-focused legislation this session.”