Stories

July 3, 2024

Fostering Love Letter

June Edition


Hello Foster Families!

Welcome to the June edition of our Fostering Love Letter! We have some exciting new opportunities lined up and to share with you to make this summer unforgettable for our incredible foster youth and families. Let’s dive in!

NEW & EXCITING

Join Us at a Bend Elks Game – July 18!

We are thrilled to invite you to join our team for a fantastic day at a Bend Elks game on July 18! Thanks to a generous donation from an anonymous donor and the Bend Elks, we have 40 free spots available. It’s a perfect way to enjoy a summer evening with great company and thrilling baseball action. But hurry, these spots are limited and sure to go fast!

To secure your spot, please sign up here. We can’t wait to see you there!

Free Life Jacket Giveaway – June 22   |   11 am

Mark your calendars for June 22! Coastal Farm in Redmond is hosting a Free Life Jacket Giveaway for all kids 12 years and younger. More information in the link.

Wake the World – August 5   |  9:00 am – 4:30 pm

Wake the World is back! This amazing event offers foster youth and families a day on the water, experiencing activities like boating, tubing, and waterskiing on Lake Billy Chinook. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity. Sign up now and let the water adventures begin!  Additional important information about WTW is included in the email from DHS earlier this week.  Please let me know if you did not receive it.

Free Camping and Day Use Passes

Enjoy the great outdoors with free camping and day use passes from the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD). Foster families can access these wonderful opportunities by applying here.

Free Fishing License

The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) offers a free fishing license for foster youth. To take advantage of this, please reach out to your certifier or the child’s caseworker.

Camp Fire Camps for Foster Youth

Camp Fire Camps have set aside spots each year for kids in special circumstances, including foster care. If you are looking for a camp this summer, it’s worth reaching out to see what is still available. Contact Nadia Kelem  at nadia@campfireco.org or call (541) 362-1596.

Summer Lunch Programs

There are free summer lunch programs throughout Central Oregon for kids. The quickest way to find one near you is this link. Make sure your kids have access to nutritious meals all summer long.

Food Services

Summer can be a financially straining time. If you need assistance with food, Central Oregon has several free food opportunities. Neighbor Impact has a mobile food pantry along with a list of all food resource in the area. For a full list, click here. Don’t forget you can apply for farmers market vouchers through your SNAP or WIC benefits. Find that resource here: SNAP and Farm Direct Dollars WIC.

Central Oregon Disability Support Network (CODSN)

The Central Oregon Disability Support Network (CODSN) is a remarkable nonprofit supporting Central Oregon families. They put on amazing events, networking opportunities, trainings, mentorship, and will hopefully have their respite program, specifically for families with kids with disabilities, up and running soon. Check out CODSN event page and see how they can support your family!

MAY LETTER REMINDERS

FINAL NOTES

  • Always reach out to the directors of any camps or programs you’re interested in to inquire about scholarship opportunities for foster youth.
  • Stay tuned for more updates and opportunities as we continue to find the best experiences for our foster families.

My NeighbOR: Need some tangible support? Every Child Central Oregon’s My NeighbOR Program is here for you! MY NEIGHBOR

We hope these opportunities bring joy and excitement to your summer plans. If you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to contact us.

Shiann